With a Heat Warning is in effect for Lunenburg County and much of Nova Scotia, here are some steps residents can take to stay safe.

• Take action to protect yourself and others – extreme heat can affect everyone’s health. Determine if you or others around you are at greater risk of heat illness.
• Check on older adults, those living alone and other at-risk people in-person or on the phone multiple times a day.
  
  
• Watch for the early signs of heat exhaustion in yourself and others. Signs may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. Stop your activity and drink water.
• Heat stroke is a medical emergency! Call 9-1-1 or your emergency health provider if you, or someone around you, is showing signs of heat stroke which can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness. While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body.
  
  
• Drink water often and before you feel thirsty to replace fluids.
• Close blinds, or shades and open windows if outside is cooler than inside.
• Turn on air conditioning, use a fan, or move to a cooler area of your living space. If your living space is hot, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre, library or shaded park.

Town Hall and Council take the health and welfare of our residents very seriously, and that includes the many pets, service and working animals in Town. Our four-legged, feline and furry friends can’t speak for themselves, so it is important to keep them in mind during a heat warning. As such, we’ve included a slide with tips on preventing pets from heatstroke.

Recently some concerns have been raised about working animals in Old Town during heat warning/advisory days. Town staff have consulted with one business – in July and again this week – to assess the situation and ensure their horses were being cared for properly. After reviewing their Safe Operating Procedure (SOP) for Horse Care During Heat and Humidity, consulting with the Department of Agriculture, and based on the information we have, the Town feels that they are operating within good safety parameters.

With the increasing frequency of heat warning days, fire bans and evolving climate in general, the Town is committed to reviewing it’s By-Laws and procedures to ensure the health and safety of the town and its citizens over the coming months.