London under two-day heatwave warning

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The two-day heat warning calls for temperatures reaching 32 degrees Celcius, with a humidex of 43 on June 15 and 16.

Environment Canada and the Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) have issued a heat warning for London, Ont. and surrounding areas. The two-day heat warning calls for temperatures reaching 32 degrees Celcius, with a humidex of 43 on June 15 and 16. The MLHU is urging Londoners to stay out of the heat as much as possible.

“The number one concern would be someone who’s going to start experiencing heat exhaustion,” said Dave Pavletic, a manager within environmental health at the MLHU. “It starts off with feeling tired, maybe some cramping muscles, which can eventually lead to more exhaustion or heatstroke.”

If any of these signs start to occur, he said to make sure to get to the hospital right away. Pavletic added it’s very important for Londoners to be taking the necessary precautions to stay safe while out in the heat.

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“Make sure that you remain hydrated throughout the day, that you’re not in direct heat for long periods of time, seek shade where you can try not to overdo it, use sunscreen, those types of things. Water is great. Sugary beverages, alcoholic beverages, caffeine, those aren’t so good. Water is the best fluid to stay hydrated on.”

When the MLHU issues a heat warning, the city sets up cooling stations situated around London, which are currently in effect.

Cooling stations are available at:

  • East Lions Community Centre - 1731 Churchill Ave.
  • North London Optimist Community Centre - 1345 Cheapside St.
  • Canada Games Aquatic Centre - 1045 Wonderland Rd. North
  • South London Community Centre - 1119 Jalna Blvd.
 

The city’s website notes that any City of London community centre can be used as a cooling centre, as long as they are open. Pavletic also suggested libraries as a great cooling centre. They are air-conditioned and are open Thursday to Saturday. The Central Branch is located at 251 Dundas Street.

“A lot of people don’t have air conditioning as well,” Pavletic added. “So it’s really important to check on family, friends, and neighbours, particularly people that are more vulnerable to the impacts of heat-related illnesses. So the elderly, for example. See if they need assistance.”

Some other tips for those who don’t have air-conditioning in their home are to use the blinds and curtains to keep the sun out of the house and try not to use the oven as much to keep the heat down.

More information on managing a heat warning can be found on the MLHU’s website.