SJY NEWSEnvironment Canada has issued a heat alert for the week beginning June 17, 2024. Elevated temperatures and increased humidity could impact vulnerable groups such as young children, expectant mothers, seniors, individuals with chronic health issues, and those engaged in outdoor work or physical activities.
During periods of high heat, it’s crucial for everyone to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even before you feel thirsty. Never leave individuals or pets in a parked car. Take necessary steps to lower your risk of heat-related illnesses (further guidance below) and regularly check on vulnerable individuals in your vicinity.
In Westmount, splash pads are open in the following parks
- Westmount Park (corner of Rue Sherbrooke and Av. Melville)
- Stayner Park (wheelchair accessible)
- Prince Albert Park (wheelchair accessible)
In addition to shopping malls, cinemas and restaurants, public cooling places in Westmount include
- Westmount Recreation Centre, 4675, rue Ste-Catherine W.; open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily
- Westmount Public Library, 4574 Sherbrooke St. W.; open Monday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Victoria Hall, 4626 Sherbrooke St. W.; open Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Heat warning in effect – Week of June 17, 2024
Health risks
Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature or humidity conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
During very hot weather, these groups are at greater risk of developing health problems:
- older persons;
- children under 5 years of age;
- persons with chronic illnesses, including heart and lung disease;
- people with mental health problems or drug or alcohol problems.
The main problems linked to heat are:
- dehydration;
- headaches;
- dizziness;
- confusion;
- fainting.
If these symptoms are present, call INFO-SANTÉ at 8-1-1 or speak to a health professional. If you have fever in addition to these symptoms, you may have heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. In this case, call 9-1-1 for help.
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY, PHONE 911.
Protect yourself and prevent health problems
When it is very hot, you need to:
- drink a lot of water without waiting to be thirsty;
- cool down by taking a shower or bath in cool water;
- spend some time in a cool and preferably air-conditioned place, where possible *;
- reduce your level of physical exertion, particularly for those working outdoors;
- wear light clothing.
