Toronto issues extreme heat alert
Posted August 30, 2010 10:57 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
TORONTO, Ont. – Toronto’s Medical Officer of Health, Dr. David McKeown, has upgraded the heat alert to an extreme heat alert for Toronto Monday. The extreme heat alert will be in effect until further notice.
During a heat alert, those at greatest risk include isolated adults and seniors who are more likely to suffer from heat-related illness. Other groups at risk include people with chronic and pre-existing illnesses, infants and young children, people on certain medications and those who are marginally housed or homeless.
Some tips for keeping cool on hot days:
– Drink lots of water and natural fruit juices.
– Find air conditioned places to stay in, like libraries or malls
– Stay out of the sun.
– Do not participate in strenuous physical outdoor activity
Cooling Centres are open during the alert at the following locations:
– Metro Hall – 55 John St. (24 hours)
– East York Civic Centre – 850 Coxwell Ave. (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
– North York Civic Centre – 5100 Yonge St. (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
– Driftwood Community Centre – 4401 Jane St. (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
– Etobicoke Olympium – 590 Rathburn Rd. (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
– McGregor Community Centre – 2231 Lawrence Ave. E. (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
– Centennial Park Community Centre – 1967 Ellesmere Rd. (11 a.m. to 7 p.m.)
Harold Hosein, 680News’ meteorologist, said it wouldn’t be usual if heat alerts were issued up until the end of September.
“Anytime there is a heat alert issued in September, I’d be surprised. But this has been an unusual year. We’ve been quite warm for a long time this year. It wouldn’t surprise me if we have a heat alert in September,” he said.
When an alert is declared, those who need assistance or have heat-related inquiries may call the Canadian Red Cross Heat Information Line at 416-480-2615 between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Click here for more information on how to Beat the Heat.
