Caution Urged as Temperatures Rise

As temperatures rise, the Department of Health Promotion and Protection is urging people to take simple precautions to protect their health.

In warmer weather, there is an increased potential for infants, pre-schoolers, adults 65 and older, and people with chronic conditions such as lung or heart problems to become ill as a result 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 underlying health issues may see symptoms worsen. If experiencing heat-related illness symptoms and have questions, call 811 for HealthLink 811. In an emergency situation, call 911.

Health officials recommend that those most at risk stay in shaded or air-conditioned areas as much as possible, drink plenty of water, wear light-colored clothing and take breaks often, if exercising or working outdoors.

Dr. Richard Gould, a medical officer of health in Nova Scotia, reminds Nova Scotians to be aware of weather conditions and tailor activities accordingly.

"People should monitor the humidex and take the necessary precautions to protect their health during high temperatures," said Dr. Gould. "Organizers of sport and recreational activities should also build in adequate water breaks and consider rescheduling activities, especially if the humidex exceeds 40.”

People without access to a cool location at home or work are encouraged to take advantage of air conditioned or cool places like 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 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