WATCH ABOVE: The searing heat can be unbearable for some, but for those looking to bask in the sunshine, they’ll have to find some creative ways to stay cool. Lisa Wolansky shows how Edmontonians are doing just that.
EDMONTON — Alberta Health Services is warning that the hot weather expected in the next few days could be a health hazard.
“Normal activity that may be safe on a cool day might be dangerous in current weather conditions,” said Dr. Joanna Oda, medical officer of health for the Edmonton Zone, in a written statement. “If you start to feel overheated, stop your activity immediately, seek shade and drink fluids.”
AHS issued heat advisories for every region of the province. Environment Canada also issued a special weather statement for Edmonton, Sherwood Park and St. Albert because of “well above normal” temperatures this weekend.
The warmest temperatures are expected Saturday and Sunday afternoons where daytime highs are forecast to reach into the low- to mid-30s.
In some parts of southeast Alberta, daytime highs are forecast to reach 38 C. Don’t expect a reprieve at night; overnight lows won’t dip much below 15 C.
READ MORE: Calgary fire crews break windows to remove kids from hot car
It’s expected the hot weather will continue through to Canada Day, July 1.
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Oda advised special attention be paid to children, seniors, outdoor workers, people with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, and those who are socially isolated who “may not know when or how to seek help, or be able to monitor their own symptoms.”
AHS recommends these precautions during the heat advisory:
- Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day.
- Take frequent breaks from heat, spending time indoors at cooled public buildings (including malls or indoor pools).
- Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
- Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle.
- At least 20 minutes before heading outdoors, apply a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 that screens out both UVA and UVB rays, and reapply frequently.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with a UVA/UVB CSA certified seal.
- Wear light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and pants that cover skin.
Watch for symptoms of heat stroke, including:
- high body temperature
- lack of sweat
- disorientation
- fainting
- unconsciousness
And while awaiting medical attention:
- move the individual to a shaded area
- remove his or her outer clothing and shoes
- wrap the person in a wet towel
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