Medical Officer Of Health-Ottawa Public Library-Environment Canada-Consecutive Days

Heat Warning in effect for July 6 and 7

The Medical Officer of Health is issuing a Heat Warning for July 6 and 7. A heat warning is declared when Environment Canada forecasts a humidex of 40 or hotter for at least two consecutive days. It is important to know that extreme heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and even death.Infants, young children and the homeless are also at greater risk from extreme heat, along with people taking medications like anti-Parkinsons and antidepressants. OPH is encouraging people to check on family, friends and neighbours who may be isolated or vulnerable to the heat and need help accessing places to cool down.To avoid heat-related illnesses, residents and visitors should:

• Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water and avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Avoid strenuous physical activity outdoors
• Avoid direct exposure to the sun and seek shade and shelter at the first signs of heat exposure
• Wear lightweight and loose clothing
• Spend at least two hours a day in an air-conditioned location, including shopping malls, local libraries or neighbourhood community centres
• Never leave children, the elderly or pets unattended in a car, even with the windows partly rolled down

Residents can cool down at City of Ottawa pools, splash pads, wading pools, beaches and community centres, as well as Ottawa Public Library branches. In addition, Rainbow Cinemas in the St. Laurent Centre has partnered with the City of Ottawa to provide reduced ticket rates to help people access air conditioning and to cool down during heat warnings.High air pollution and UV index levels often occur during hot weather conditions.

• People with breathing and heart problems and parents and caregivers of children should pay attention to the hourly Air Quality Health Index available at airhealth.ca or at 1-866-688-3810.
• Check the forecasted UV index daily at theweathernetwork.com, local newspaper, television or radio. Choose a sunscreen and lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.

As part of the City of Ottawa Heat Action Plan, Ottawa Public Health (OPH) closely monitors the weather forecast for heat, smog and UV index levels and notifies residents, service providers and media when heat thresholds are met. We offer protective and proactive advice on how to deal with these summer conditions.The smog and heat thresholds are:

• Heat Advisory (humidex of 36 or more for a least two consecutive days)
• Heat Warning (humidex of 40 or more for at least two consecutive days)
• Heat Emergency (humidex of 45 or more for at least two consecutive days or situational factors)
• Smog Advisory (based on air quality index (AQI) of > 50)
• UV Index Warning ( UV index of 10 or higher)

For additional information on ways to beat the heat, visit ottawa.ca/health or call Ottawa Public Health Information at 613-580-6744. Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter (@ottawahealth). read more..

source:ottawa.ca

Parliament Hill-Backyard Bbq-Canada Day

Celebrate Canada Day the Healthy Way

Whether you’re enjoying a backyard BBQ, heading to the lake, or joining the crowds on Parliament Hill, you can be sure of one thing: Ottawa knows how to celebrate our Nation’s birthday. While you’re sporting your red and white colours and proudly waving your flag, it’s important to think of your health:

• Seek shade. Staying out in the sun all day can leave you sunburned, dehydrated, and exhausted. Remember to apply and re-apply sunscreen throughout the day and drink plenty of water.
• Limit your consumption of alcoholic beverages.
• Keep your children within arms’ reach when in and around water.
• Remember to be respectful to others and their property, and be aware of Ottawa’s bylaws regarding fireworks.

This Canada Day, celebrate with friends and family safely and responsibly, and make this Canada Day a memorable one. read more..

source:ottawa.ca