Caution Urged During High Temperatures

With high temperatures anticipated today, July 13, and into the weekend, Nova Scotians are encouraged to monitor the humidex and air quality health index, and take precautions to protect their health.

"There are many simple, common-sense steps that we can all take to protect our health when the weather is very hot," Dr. Richard Gould, a medical officer of health for Nova Scotia. "Remember to stay in the shade or air-conditioned places, wear loose and light clothing, drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activities."

Children, other dependent people and pets should never be left in a car in warm weather as the temperature inside a car can rise to extreme levels.

Warmer weather means infants, pre-schoolers, adults 65 and older, and people with chronic conditions such as lung or heart problems are at increased risk because of high heat and humidity. Family pets are also susceptible to high temperatures.

Symptoms of heat-related illness can include:

• heat cramps: muscle spasms
• heat syncope: fainting or near fainting
• heat exhaustion: fatigue, weakness, reduced energy, headache, nausea and more
• heat stroke: confusion, disorientation, loss of consciousness or seizures

People with heat-related illness symptoms should call 811 for HealthLink 811 with questions. In an emergency situation, call 911.

Organizers of sport and recreational activities should also build in adequate water breaks and consider rescheduling activities, especially if the humidex exceeds 40.

If a cool location is not available at home or work, other options include air-conditioned or cool places such as shopping malls, libraries, community centres or a friend's home. Fans alone may not provide enough cooling in high temperatures.

The humidex tells how hot it feels for the average person. It combines temperature and humidity. To find the humidex level or the air quality health index level in your community, visit Environment Canada's website at www.weatheroffice.gc.ca .

For more heat safety tips, go to www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/HeatSummerSafety.pdf and www.gov.ns.ca/hpp/publications/Hydration_scr.pdf .