Feels-like temp tops 40 degrees, city issues heat alert

The temperature topped out at a thermometer-busting 32 degrees in Toronto today. Forty-two with the humidity.

Tips for beating the heat:

  • Drink lots of water or natural fruit juices — do not wait to feel thirsty.
  • Go to air conditioned places, including shopping malls, local libraries or community centres.
  • Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric.
  • Stay out of the sun.
  • Reduce strenuous physical outdoor activity, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
  • Never leave the elderly, children or pets unattended in a car.

Source: Toronto.ca

The heat prompted the city to declare a heat alert.

“This heat can make things more difficult when I do my daily errands,” said 19-year-old Veronica Peacock, an avid beach-goer and athlete. “I make sure I always carry a water bottle with me, as well as keeping my electrolytes up with sport drinks. I also make sure that I am wearing a hat or have an umbrella with me.

“And when I go on my runs, I make sure I stick to where there is shade or somewhere there is a wind tunnel so I can catch a breeze.”

Dr. David McKeown, the city’s medical officer of health, is calling on Torontonians to look out for one another during the extreme temperatures.

“During a heat alert, the public is encouraged to call or visit family, friends and neighbours, especially isolated adults and seniors who are at greater risk of suffering from heat-related illness, to make sure they are cool and drinking plenty of fluids,” McKeown said in a press release earlier today.

“Other groups at risk include people with chronic and pre-existing illnesses, infants and young children, people on certain medications and those who are marginally housed or homeless.”

About this article

By: Michelle Grace
Posted: Jun 8 2011 6:28 pm
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