Heat warning issued for Hamilton, city offers 'cool places' to escape high temperatures

The City of Hamilton's Medical Officer of Health has issued a heat warning beginning Monday that's expected to last multiple days and is offering cooling spaces for people to go throughout the city to avoid the high temperatures.

Heat warning issued for Hamilton, city offers 'cool places' to escape high temperatures Environment Canada says the heat wave is expected to last until Thursday The City of Hamilton has issued a heat warning beginning Monday that's expected to last multiple days and is offering cooling spaces for people to go throughout the city to avoid the high temperatures. Environment Canada issued a yellow heat warning for most of Southern Ontario this week, with temperatures ranging between 30 and 37 C, and humidex values making it feel like anywhere from 38 to 45 C. Temperatures are expected to peak Tuesday near 37 C, with high heat lasting through Wednesday or Thursday evening, the federal weather agency said.

On Monday morning, the city's Medical Officer of Health initiated a heat warning for the city, stating the municipality and participating community agencies will be offering "cooling places" for people to go to during the heat event. In a release, the city said these locations can be identified by a “Cool Down Here” sign at the entrance and a list of designated cooling spaces can be found on the city's website. The city will also offer all regularly scheduled open swims at the city's indoor and outdoor pools free of charge throughout the heat event, the release said.

Watch for signs of heat exhaustion The city is urging people to take steps to keep cool this week and to watch for any signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, weakness, cold, pale and clammy skin, weak pulse, fainting and vomiting. Anyone experiencing these symptoms should get help right away and is encouraged to call 911 if needed. To avoid heat-related illness, the city recommends people drink lots of water and wear hats, sunscreen and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to keep cool.

Limiting physical activity outdoors and keeping your living space cool by closing blinds or curtains is also recommended during the day when temperatures are at their peak, the release said. People are reminded to never leave children or pets in closed vehicles, especially during heat events and the city asks residents to check on their neighbours and loved ones to make sure they have access to cool spaces if needed. With files from The Canadian Press