Stratford continues to swelter under a dangerous heatwave, with temperatures expected to stay in the low 30’s until Friday.
Jeremy Witzel, Manager of Public Works for the City of Stratford, told My Stratford Now that during their daily tailgate meeting, city workers reviewed and discussed heat stress, dehydration, and their signs and symptoms.
“We have a cold water fountain at our yard. We provide a drink with electrolytes for staff daily and have a vending machine with many cool non-sugar choices,” said Witzel.
Residents walking in downtown Stratford voiced their feelings regarding the extreme heat.
“We’ve had a long winter, so we really shouldn’t complain too much,” said one resident.
“However, it’s harder for people that don’t have any way to get any relief with air conditioning or a pool. Stay hydrated, stay in the shade, use sunscreen, take it easy.”
Raman Kaur, owner of Culture Coffee said people are coming in for cold drinks due to the scorching weather.
To cool down, public swims are being offered at the Stratford Lions Pool until Thursday.
These evening swims, from 6 to 8 p.m., are free of charge and open to everyone in the community on a first-come, first-served basis with no pre-registration required.
Cooling centres are also available at Stratford Public Library and Stratford Rotary Complex. Additionally, the Anne Hathaway Park splash pad is open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
With humidex between 40 and 45, Environment Canada advises keeping an eye out for signs of swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.
