(Source: http://www.modesto-chiro.com/images/thumbs/heat-stroke-1.jpg *Advice does NOT come from PHU*)

It may have taken a longer journey for the warmer weather to finally arrive in our neck of the woods, but Northeastern Ontario felt the burning heat waves of what could end up being one cruel, hot summer.

With Environment Canada posting online warnings after weekend temperatures skyrocketed to more than 30 degrees Celsius, The Porcupine Health Unit is now urging you to keep cool

It only took a few days for Mother Nature and rain to cool things down temperature-wise, but taking extra precautions to avoid heat stroke during heat waves is crucial, especially for young children and the elderly – two age groups who are at a greater risk of heat-related illnesses.

Generally, Environment Canada will issue heat warnings when unseasonably high temps and humidity conditions can cause heat stroke or heat exhaustion


HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF:
-Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids (Water is best as sugary drinks & alcohol can further dehydrate you)
By the time you realize you are “thirsty” your body is actually dehydrated, so try and continually drink water before noticing you’re even thirsty.
-Close blinds
-Put sheets in freezer for mid-day cool-down nap
-Put a cold, damp towel over your feet
-Take cool showers
-Opt for cool foods like salads, etc
-Limit outdoor activities and avoid hottest time of day 11am-3pm (or make shade breaks more regularly)

HEAT EXHAUSTION SYMPTOMS:
-Extreme fatigue
-Nausea
-Headache
-Dehydration
-Weakness
-Confusion/Anxiety
-Dizzy / Fainting

HEAT STROKE SYMPTOMS:
-Nausea + vomiting
-Headache
-Dizziness or vertigo
-Fatigue
-Rapid heart rate
-Shortness of breath
-Blood in urine or feces
-Increased body temperature and decreased sweating
-Confusion + convulsions