JUNE 20, 2025 – As we move into the summer months, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge (HKPR) District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health (now legally merged) are sharing reminders of the significant health risks people can experience during extreme heat conditions, and how to prepare and stay protected this summer.

In Southern Ontario, heat warnings are issued by Environment and Climate Change Canada. Residents are encouraged to sign up to receive local weather alerts, including extreme heat conditions, so that they can take appropriate public health measures to protect themselves. It is currently forecasted that the Health Unit region could experience a multi-day heat event beginning Sunday, June 22, 2025.

Extreme heat can affect everyone’s health, but some individuals are more vulnerable to heat-related illness. These include infants and children, older adults, people with pre-existing medical conditions and people taking certain medications, people who lack adequate shelter or who are unhoused, newcomers to Canada, outdoor workers, and sports/outdoor enthusiasts. Extreme heat events have been increasing in the context of climate change, and our region is at health risk of extreme heat as shared in the Climate Change and Vulnerability Health Assessments from the HKPR District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health.

“Extreme heat isn’t just uncomfortable — it can be dangerous, especially for those most at risk,” says Bernie Mayer, Manager of Environmental Health with the Health Unit. “By planning ahead, staying hydrated, and knowing where to cool down, we can all take simple but effective steps to protect ourselves and our communities during the hot summer months.”

Know the Signs of Heat-Related Illness
Heat-related illnesses can develop quickly and should be monitored carefully. Signs and symptoms include:

• Heat Rash: red or pink rash usually found on the neck, back, chest and/or elbow creases.
• Heat Cramps: painful muscle cramps.
• Heat Exhaustion: heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and fainting.
• Heat Stroke: headache, dizziness, confusion, and fainting; skin may be hot and dry or damp; this is a medical emergency and 9-1-1 should be called right away.

Tips to Stay Safe in the Heat
Heat-related illnesses are preventable, and it is important to stay cool and well-hydrated. Here are some steps to prepare and stay safe during extreme heat events:

• Stay Cool: Avoid direct sun exposure and wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid strenuous activities, take extra breaks, and plan outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day. Take cool showers or baths. Use a fan and aim the airflow in your direction. Spend time in air-conditioned spaces, such as a community centre, shopping mall, public library or designated cooling centre. Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle or in direct sunlight.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Add more fruits and vegetables with high water content into your diet.
• Food Safety: Don’t keep food at room temperature for more than one hour during extreme heat conditions. Use a cooler with ice to keep food cool when travelling and avoid leaving groceries or food in the car. Always remember to keep food out of the temperature danger zone of 4°C to 60°C (40°F to 140°F). Harmful bacteria can grow in as little as two hours in this temperature range.
• Sun Safety: Check the Ultraviolet (UV) Index daily and take extra precautions when it is 3 or higher. Protect yourself from harmful UV be seeking shade, wearing protective clothing and sunglasses, applying broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen (and lip balm), and stay hydrated.
• Stay Informed: Contact your local municipality for information on air-conditioned cooling centres during extreme heat. Sign up for local weather alerts to be notified of upcoming extreme heat conditions and take appropriate measures to protect yourself and others. Follow your local health unit (@HKPRDHU or @PtboHealth) for local alerts, information, and updates. If you are taking medication or have a health condition, be sure to consult with your healthcare provider or call Health811 to find out if your health risk increases in the heat or if your skin becomes more sensitive to UV rays.

By taking simple, preventative steps and staying informed, you can reduce your risk of heat-related illness and enjoy a safer, healthier summer. For more tips and local resources to help you prepare for extreme heat, visit hkpr.on.ca/Heat or peterboroughpublichealth.ca/extremeheat. 

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Did You Know We Merged? 
As of January 1, 2025, the Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit and Peterborough Public Health merged to form the Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Public Health (legal name only).  
 
Efforts are currently underway to develop an operational name and a brand identity. In the meantime, you will see logos and other marketing material from both legacy organizations. You may also see references and documents using the legal name Haliburton Kawartha Northumberland Peterborough Public Health. 

Partners and members of the public should continue to engage with their local public health offices as usual until otherwise directed.