A young woman drinks water on a hot day in Toronto. It will feel 40 degrees this week with humidity. (Photo: UHN)
One week after the massive storm that flooded most of the GTA, Toronto is experiencing another bout of intense weather.
Environment Canada issued a heat alert for the city, as temperatures this week will reach 33 degrees Celsius but feel like 40 degrees with humidity.
There’s also been record highs in Atlantic Canada, with St. John’s, Newfoundland hitting 30 degrees Celsius for the first time in 17 years. A high heat alert is also in effect in parts of Quebec, including Montreal and Quebec City.
The sweltering temperatures aren’t just uncomfortable – they can lead to heat exhaustion, fatigue, heat cramps and heat stroke.
Dr. Anil Chopra, UHN's head of emergency medicine, offers five tips on how to stay safe in scorching summer temperatures.
Dr. Chopra's 5 tips to beat the heat:
1. Limit sun exposure
Specifically limit strenuous outdoor activity and take short breaks indoors or in a shady area.
2. Drink up!
Drink plenty of non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages to stay hydrated. Water is recommended because it’s absorbed by the body quicker than most other fluids and does not contain chemicals or agents that have a dehydrating effect.
3. Hat and sunscreen
Protect yourself from the sun’s direct heat by wearing a hat and sunscreen (30+ SPF) when you’re outside.
4. Toss the tie
Shed extra layers of clothing – like jackets, ties and scarves – that make it difficult for your body to lose any heat its holding.
5. A/C, fan
Turn on air conditioning or fans to increase evaporative heat loss.
Keep these tips in mind when you are running errands, playing sports or relaxing outside.
