Prepare for a Hot July Fourth Weekend

The Eastern Shore is bracing for the first heatwave of the summer this weekend.   Heat indexes of over 105 are expected today and Saturday. These attending local celebrations are urged to take the following precautions.

Health officials are urging people to take extra care as hot weather continues across the region.

Their message is straightforward: stay cool, stay hydrated, and watch for signs of heat-related illness.

Drink water often, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Cut back on alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and sugary beverages, which can increase the risk of dehydration.

If you can, stay in an air-conditioned building. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, spend time in public places such as libraries or other public buildings. And avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you must be outside, stay in the shade.

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat. A cool shower or cool, damp cloths on your neck, wrists, and forehead can also help lower your body temperature.

Choose light meals and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables with high water content.

Officials also remind parents and caregivers never to leave children, older adults, or pets in a parked vehicle—even for a few minutes. Pets should always have access to fresh water and shade, and dogs should be kept off hot pavement.

Finally, check on neighbours, friends, and family members who may be more vulnerable to extreme heat, including seniors, young children, and people living with chronic health conditions.

Know the warning signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, headaches, weakness, and muscle cramps. Move to a cool place, drink water, loosen clothing, and cool the body. If symptoms don’t improve within 30 minutes or get worse, seek medical attention immediately.

And call 9-1-1 right away if someone becomes confused, loses consciousness, has a body temperature above 103 degrees, suffers a seizure, or has hot, dry skin or excessive sweating along with changes in mental state.