With temperatures expected to soar to record territory later this week, the city of Toronto has issued another heat alert.

The city is urging people to limit their time in the sun and to take precautions to avoid any heat-related problems.

After days of sweltering heat – and ahead of what could be the hottest day of the year – Tuesday is expected to be the most comfortable day of the week with a "cooler" temperature of just below 30 C and humidex values in the low to mid-30s.

It was a bit cooler compared with the scorching temperatures that Torontonians have endured in the last couple days.

On Monday, people sweated it out to a temperature of 34 C and humidex values as high as 42. Sunday's mark of 35.2 C was a record for July 17.

Enjoy the break while it lasts because Thursday is shaping up to be the mother of all scorchers.

After a high of 32 C on Wednesday, a mind-boggling temperature of 38 C is being predicted for Thursday, according to Environment Canada's long-term forecast.

The rest of the week will bring more sun. Highs of 31 C or 32 C are in the forecast Friday through Monday, along with a 30 per cent chance of rain Sunday and Monday.

Normal temperatures for this time of year are highs of 27 C and lows of 17 C.

Stay safe

In hot, humid conditions, there is a risk of heat stroke and sun stroke.

Toronto EMS Chief Paul Raftis said call volumes over the last few days have risen five to 10 per cent as temperatures remain high.

Here are some tips to keep in mind in times of high heat and humidity:

- Check on family members, friends and neighbours, especially isolated adults, seniors and people with chronic and pre-existing illnesses.

- Drink lots of water or natural fruit juices – do not wait to feel thirsty.

- Go to air-conditioned placed, including shopping malls, a library or community centre.

- Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made of breathable fabrics.

- Stay out of the sun.

- Reduce strenuous physical outdoor activity, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

- Wear sunscreen if you venture outdoors.

People with heart or lung conditions, seniors and children should pay attention to the air quality health index level.

As a result of the high temperatures, eight outdoor pools will remain open until 11:45 p.m. Tuesday night.

The pools are Alex Duff, Alexandra Park, Giovanni Caboto, MacGregor Park, Monarch Park, Regent Park, Smithfield and Sunnyside Gus Ryder.

The indoor pool at Cummer Park Community Centre will also be open late.

Click here for a map of public cooling centres and public places that have air conditioning.

Pet safety

This type of heat can be dangerous for pets, too.

People shouldn't expose their cats or dogs to the heat for extended periods because they could be at risk of heat stroke, according to the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

Dogs should only be left outdoors for short periods, should have plenty of water and a cool, sheltered place to rest that is out of direct sunlight, the OSPCA said.

Walks should take place in the early morning or evening when it's cooler outside.