The first warm days have arrived in the region. On Wednesday, the mercury is expected to reach 29 degrees Celsius with a UV index of 9 or very high predicted. The situation will continue for the next two days.
the CISSS de l’Outaouais would like to remind you that heat can cause dehydration. To detect it, it manifests as intense thirst, unusual tiredness, headaches, dizziness, swelling in the hands, feet and ankles, and muscle cramps.
If left untreated, the condition may worsen, possibly leading to heat stroke which can be recognized by elevated body temperature, confusion and fainting
recalls the CISSS de l’Outaouais in a statement released Wednesday, stating that heat stroke is a medical emergency
.
Tips for protecting yourself from the heat
Elderly people, infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses, especially heart, lung, kidney disease and certain mental health conditions, people who need help with drinking and people who work outdoors or exposed to heat from other sources are at greater risk.
To protect yourself, it is recommended to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even when you do not feel thirsty, for the breastfed baby, to offer the breast on demand, to avoid alcoholic beverages and sugary and caffeinated foods such as tea and coffee, cooling the skin with a wet towel several times a day and, for adults, taking a cool shower or bath daily or more as needed, and for babies and children, to take a lukewarm bath or shower at least twice a day.
the CISSS de l’Outaouais also recommends spending at least two hours a day in air-conditioned or cooler places, closing curtains or blinds when the sun is shining and ventilating if possible when the night is cool.
It is also best to plan outdoor activities and outings to the park for cooler times of the day and reduce the intensity of activities as needed.
Better to stay in the shade when the UV index is high, reminds the CISSS de l’Outaouais (archives).
Photo: Radio-Canada / Hugo Belanger
It is important never to leave a child or baby alone in a poorly ventilated car or room, even for a few minutes, reminds public health authorities.
In case of discomfort or for any questions, it is possible to call Info-Santé at 811 and, in an emergency, to dial 9-1-1.
Due to the high UV index announced for the next few days, the CISSS de l’Outaouais also encourages residents to protect themselves from the sun and learn about the UV index before going out.
Everyone is at risk for sunburn. Especially children under 18 and people with pale skin
Write the CISSS de l’Outaouais who recommends staying in the shade as much as possible and wearing light clothing, using sunglasses and, in the event of exposure, regularly applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor is 30 or more.
Ban on fires in the Outaouais
On Tuesday, the Ministry of Forests, Wildlife and Parks announced the establishment of a ban on open fires in or near the forest for an indefinite period due to weather conditions.
In Outaouais, this announcement concerns Gatineau, as well as the MRC Papineau, Collines-de-l’Outaouais, Vallée-de-la-Gatineau and Pontiac.
This ban went into effect on May 10 at 8 a.m.
Currently, 12 fires are active in Quebec. Since the start of the protection season, 138 forest fires have affected 114.2 hectares. The average of the last ten years at the same date is 102 fires for an area of 82.4 hectares.
Reference-ici.radio-canada.ca