Beat the heat this summer

By Courtney Warren 

Headlines across the country have been focusing on the rising heat waves. Canton is no stranger to high temperatures, and, while citizens may find relief from these temperatures with splash pads, pools, and ice cold sweet tea, it is important to remember heat safety. 

Heat is one of the leading weather-related killers in the United States, resulting in over one thousand fatalities each year, per the CDC. 

According to the National Weather Service, the following groups are particularly vulnerable to heat; check in with friends and relatives who fall in one of these populations, especially if they don’t have air conditioning.

● Young children and infants are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness and death, as their bodies are less able to adapt to heat than are adults. 
● Older adults, particularly those with pre-existing diseases, take certain medications, are living alone or with limited mobility who are exposed to extreme heat can experience multiple adverse effects.
● People with chronic medical conditions are more likely to have a serious health problem during a heat wave than healthy people.
● Pregnant women are also at higher risk. Extreme heat events have been associated with adverse birth outcomes such as low birth weight, preterm birth, and infant mortality, as well as congenital cataracts.

It is NEVER safe to leave a child, disabled person or pet locked in a car, even in the winter. If you have a toddler in your household, lock your cars, even in your own driveway.  Kids play in cars or wander outside and get into a car and can die in ten minutes.

What can Cantonians do to escape the heat this summer? Here are a few tips!

● Visit the splash pad at one of our Canton parks.
● Treat yourself to ice cream in one of our local ice cream shops on the square.
● Stop by the Canton library for some air conditioning, and enjoy several programs the library has to offer. 
● Find a shady spot and picnic on the Courthouse lawn. 
● Visit Canton Tourism for ways to volunteer in Canton or see more of the city.