Public Service Announcement: The City of Markham issues heat warning from May 25 to May 28

City reminds residents to stay cool and hydrated, keep people and pets out of parked vehicles and to check on elderly persons

MARKHAM, ON – May 25, 2020 – Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Markham lasting from Monday, May 25 to Wednesday, May 28. High daytime temperatures near 30 are expected this afternoon and temperatures are forecast to be slightly higher Tuesday and Wednesday. Humidex values in the mid to upper thirties are also expected.

In order to practice effective physical distancing due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Markham is unable to provide designated cooling centres.

It is important to take precautions to avoid suffering heat-related illnesses. Markham recommends the following based on Health Canada guidelines:

• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, to decrease your risk of dehydration.
• Frequently call to check in with friends, neighbours, and elderly family members, especially those who are chronically ill, to make sure they are cool and hydrated.
• Because of the early Season, many condominiums may not currently have active air conditioning. It is important to call and check in on friends, family members, and neighbours who may be living in a building without air conditioning. It is especially important if they are elderly.
• Keep people and pets in your care out of parked vehicles and direct sunlight.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabric and ensure you wear hats and sunglasses.
• Spend a few hours in a cool place while practicing physical distancing, such as a tree-shaded area.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Prepare meals that don't need to be cooked in your oven.
• Block sunlight by opening awnings, and closing curtains and blinds during the day.
• Avoid sun exposure - shade yourself by wearing a wide-brimmed, breathable hat or using an umbrella.
• If you are taking medication or have an existing health condition, ask your doctor or pharmacist if heat exposure increases your health risk and follow their advice.
• If you have an air conditioner with a thermostat, keep it set to somewhere between 22ºC (72ºF) and 26ºC (79ºF), which will reduce your energy costs and provide you with needed relief.
• If you have a window air conditioner, cool only one room where you can go for heat relief.
• Reschedule or plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day or avoid outdoor activities if you have health concerns.
  

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Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti's Office:
Lama Nicolas, Senior Communications Advisor at lnicolas@markham.ca or 416.671.2890

For all other media inquiries / interview requests for the City of Markham:
Andrea Berry, Sr Mngr, Corp Comm & Community Engagement at aberry@markham.ca or 416.556.6975