UNSEASONABLY HIGH HEAT HITTING THE AKWESASNE AREA
The Mohawk Council of Akwesasne Department of Health is advising the community to prepare for upcoming high temperatures and humidity this week. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, facilities that are normally used as cooling centers are not available to provide this service. Please call elders in your family or other high-risk individuals to check on them to make sure they are okay.
While extreme heat and humidity can put everyone at risk from heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for:
• Older adults;
• Infants and young children;
• People with chronic illnesses, such as breathing difficulties, heart conditions, or psychiatric illnesses;
• People who work in the heat;
• People who exercise in the heat;
• Homeless people; and
• Low-income earners
Heat illnesses are preventable. Some tips for staying cool in the heat include:
• Drink plenty of cool liquids, especially water, before you feel thirsty to decrease your risk of dehydration.
• Take cool showers or baths until you feel refreshed.
• Prepare meals that don’t need to be cooked in the oven.
• Block sun out by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day.
• Wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made of breathable fabric.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call the Akwesasne Mohawk Ambulance at 613-575-2000 if someone has a high body temperature, is unconscious or confused, or has stopped sweating.
