REGINA – Parts of Saskatchewan, including Regina and Saskatoon were under a heat warning on Thursday.
Environment Canada says hot, humid conditions pushed humidex values into the 40’s Thursday afternoon.
The rising mercury proved to be a challenge for those who work outdoors.
Calvin Ford, the owner of Calvin Built Incorporated said his crew packed up early afternoon to avoid getting sick from the heat.
“We’re slowed down quite a bit, having to stop and get a drink of water. We go through about four liters in about four hours,” Ford added.
In some cases the heat was unbearable and forced some businesses to close up shop for the day.
Ashlee Storey, one of the owners of The Frank Car, said it wasn’t worth it for her food stand to stay open in the heat.
“When you’re standing in front of a barbecue that’s pumping off 120 degrees, it adds on. So 40 to you is like 60 to us.”
Those at greatest risk from heat illness are older adults, infants and young children, people with chronic illnesses, those working or exercising outdoors, people without air conditioning and homeless people.
“Extremely hot summer weather increases the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke,” said Dr. Denise Werker, Saskatchewan’s deputy chief medical health officer.
“The majority of heat-related illnesses can be prevented by keeping the body cool and by remaining hydrated.”
Tips to avoid heat-related complications include:
• drinking plenty of water
• avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
• wearing light-coloured, lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a hat
• taking frequent breaks in the shade, visiting a mall or other air conditioned facility to cool down
• cooling off by taking a cool shower, bath or sponge bath
• avoiding the consumption of coffee, colas, and alcohol as those tend to dehydrate the body
While the heat can be hard to beat, most people seem to agree that Saskatchewan’s warm weather is nothing worth complaining about.
Amanda Degelman is a resident in Regina and explained that she’d rather have extreme heat then Saskatchewan’s frigid winter.
“We could be having 40 below weather, think of those days that suck. This is amazing,” she adds.
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