Oakville's first heat warning was issued by Environment Canada at 4:38 AM. The warning covers most of the surrounding areas, and is in effect until Sunday evening. All public building such as recreation centres, libraries, and town hall are cooling centres. Public pools and splash pads are a great place for children to get outside and still keep cool.
Since today is Canada's Parks Day, Bronte Creek Provincial Park has an extremely large pool which you can enjoy. Due to the recent thunderstorm, the likelihood of our public beaches being safe are slim. However, the temperature by the lake should be cooler, and we have several excellent parks along our shoreline.
Environment Canada's alert states the following:
Temperatures will peak in the 30 to 32 degree range today and Sunday. Tonight will be a very warm night with overnight minimum temperatures in the 20 to 23 degree range. Humidex values will be near 40 during the afternoon hours today and Sunday, although it may be slightly cooler near the shorelines of the Great Lakes. Temperatures are not expected to be as warm on Monday with highs in the upper 20's.
While extreme heat can put everyone at risk from heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for
- older adults
- infants and young children
- people with chronic illnesses such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions or psychiatric illnesses
- people who work in the heat
- people who exercise in the heat
- people without access to air conditioning and
- homeless people.
Drink plenty of liquids especially water before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration. Thirst is not a good indicator of dehydration.
Never leave people or pets in your care inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.