Canada Day heat: Just how hot it will get, and how you can stay safe

By Stuart McGinn

Environment Canada is calling it the most significant heat event over the past few years. 

A heat wave that's making it's way for the Ottawa region kicks off on Friday, where temperatures will rise above 30 degrees. We'll reach the peak of the wave on Canada Day, where the forecasted high is 36, and humidex values could make that feel like 47. 

The heat has Ottawa Paramedics taking some extra measures to stay prepared.

“In anticipation of the heat, we've put even more units out on the road, and on special event, to make sure that we are ready to respond to any surge in call volume,” said spokesperson, Marc-Antoine Deschamps. 

“Make sure you stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids, mainly water. Avoid alcohol and caffeine if you're out in the sun, because these two will actually dehydrate you.” 

Paramedics are also spreading awareness of the signs that could indicate your body is battling heat exhaustion – if you find yourself feeling dizzy or nauseous, take steps to combat the heat. 

“Make sure that you start drinking,” said Deschamps. “You can sit down, try to find a place to rest in the shade or in an air conditioned (building). If these measures do not help you, make sure you seek medical attention.” 

Jill Taylor's forecast: 

FRIDAY: MAINLY SUNNY 
GUARANTEED HIGH 32, HUMIDEX NEAR 39
 
FRIDAY EVENING: PARTLY CLOUDY
TEMPERATURE NEAR 29
 
OVERNIGHT:  SLIGHT CHANCE OF THUNDERSTORM
MORNING LOW NEAR 20 
 
SATURDAY: MAINLY SUNNY. CHANCE OF A FEW SHOWERS EARLY IN THE MORNING (SCATTERED THUNDERSTORMS FOR COTTAGE COUNTY IN THE AFTERNOON)
HIGH NEAR 33, HUMIDEX NEAR 45
 
SUNDAY: CANADA DAY: SUN AND CLOUD
MORNING LOW NEAR 22, HIGH NEAR 36, HUMIDEX NEAR 47
 
MONDAY: MAINLY SUNNY. SLIGHT CHANCE OF SHOWERS
MORNING LOW NEAR 22, HIGH NEAR 34, HUMIDEX NEAR 42 
 
CONTINUING HOT AND HUMID  FOR MOST OF NEXT WEEK.

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