Jul 4th, 2018

Beat the Heat This Summer!

When both temperature and humidity are high, it is hard for our bodies to cool down. The City of Ottawa has developed a plan to respond to community needs during extreme heat events. Ottawa Public Health will issue heat warnings to raise awareness of health risks and suggest ways people can cool off when Environment and Climate Change Canada issue a heat warning. New health-based thresholds were adopted in 2016.  A heat warning will be issued when daytime temperatures are expected to be warmer than 31^oC and nighttime temperatures no cooler than 20^oC or a humidex value of 40^oC are expected for two or more days.

Try some of these cool suggestions…

Enjoy one of the City of Ottawa outdoor and indoor pools, splash pads, wading pools or beaches.  When a heat warning is in effect, your local City of Ottawa pool will convert all lane swims to leisure swims. Stay cool and have fun!  For daily beach swimming updates call 613-580-2424, ext. 13219 or look online at OttawaPublicHealth.ca.

Visit one of 33 Ottawa Public Library branches. Why not read a good book or surf the web in the air-conditioned comfort of the Ottawa Public Libraries? Call Info Service for branch locations and hours of operation at 613-580-2940.

Visit City Hall or one of the Client Service Centres. You will find artwork and lots of info on what the City has to offer as well as a place to cool down. City Hall is located at 110 Laurier Avenue West.

See a movie at Imagine Cinemas St. Laurent Centre. When a heat warning is in effect, Imagine Cinemas St. Laurent Centre offers affordable movie tickets.

Protect Yourself and Help Others during Hot Weather – More Tips

• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid heavy outdoor activity
• Wear a hat, light and loose clothing, sunscreen and sunglasses when going outside
• Cool off in an air-conditioned room
• Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist if you are taking medications. Some medicines like antidepressants and Parkinson’s disease medications make it harder to control body temperature.
• Stay connected with people in your community who have a difficult time coping with hot weather and those who live alone. Check on them regularly.

For more information call Ottawa Public Health Information at 613-580-6744.

content from the City of Ottawa website: July 2018