the windsor-essex county health unit has issued a heat warning through sunday. (jason kryk/windsor star)jason kryk
the windsor-essex county health unit’s medical officer of health has issued a heat warning for saturday, july 5 and sunday, july 6.
dr. mehdi aloosh issued the warning friday afternoon.
a heat warning is issued when two consecutive days are forecasted to have a daytime high temperature greater than or equal to 31 c and overnight temperatures greater than or equal to 21 c or a humidex of 42 c or greater.
temperatures are expected to remain in the high 20s c for next week, with a 60 per cent chance of showers, according to environment canada.
the health unit advises residents to monitor local weather forecasts and warnings regularly, also:
drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty
wear a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
take a cool bath or shower
limit outdoor activities to the coolest part of the day
do not leave children, adults, or pets in parked cars
stay connected with family members, neighbours, or friends during very hot days in case they need assistance
look for shade or a cool shelter in an air-conditioned location if available.
learn about ways to keep your home cool during the summer (e.g., keep window shades or drapes drawn and blinds closed on the sunny side of your home). if you have an air conditioner, make sure it works properly before the hot weather starts.
ian macleod is a reporter at the windsor star. he has worked at eight newspapers, holding managing editor positions at four. his journalism career has taken him all over ontario and to saskatoon, where he was editor of canada’s leading agricultural publication. he is an award-winning editorial writer. he also wrote an ontario provincial affairs column for four years for sun media, which appeared in 22 daily community newspapers. he lives in essex county, and is enjoying covering all aspects of life in windsor-essex.