WATCH ABOVE: While it’s not officially a heat wave, we are in the midst of another stretch of scorching weather. As Tom Vernon explains, those who work and play outside need to be extra careful.
EDMONTON – Alberta Health Services issued a heat advisory for the Edmonton zone Wednesday, as temperatures in the region are expected to soar over the next few days.
The advisory will be in effect until noon on Friday.
AHS is reminding people of the following tips to avoid burns, exhaustion and heat stroke:
- 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. Apply a sunscreen of at least sun protection factor (SPF) 30, at least 20 minutes before heading outdoors;
- Be sure the SPF 30 screens out both UVA and UVB rays, and reapply frequently (as directed on product label);
- 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.
“Normal activity that may be safe on a cool day might be dangerous in current weather conditions. If you start to feel overheated, stop your activity immediately, seek shade and drink fluids,” advised Dr. Joanna Oda, a medical officer of health in the Edmonton Zone.
Oda said people also need to look out for each other, particularly those with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly and the very young.
“Excessive heat can aggravate underlying medical illness such as congestive heart failure, and can also be of heightened danger to children and seniors. Individuals who are socially isolated may not know when or how to seek help, or be able to monitor their own symptoms.”
WATCH: Margeaux Morin’s long-range weather forecast
Edmonton reached a high of 30°C Wednesday, the 12th time the city hit 30 or higher this summer. The city met a temperature record set back in 1935 and 1961, but did not break the 30-degree temperature record.
READ MORE: Tips on how to sleep in hot weather and 3 things to avoid
A heat advisory was issued for the Calgary zone Tuesday afternoon, which will be in effect until Thursday afternoon.
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