Environment Canada has issued multiple heat warnings across Saskatchewan as temperatures are expected to rise to the mid-30s C.
The following locations are under a heat warning as of 10 a.m. local time:
- Lloydminster
- Saskatoon
- Cree Lake-Key Lake
- Île à la Crosse – Buffalo Narrows – Beauval
- Kindersley – Rosetown – Biggar – Wilkie – Macklin
- La Loche – Clearwater River Prov. Park – Cluff Lake
- Leader – Gull Lake
- Martensville – Warman – Rosthern – Delisle – Wakaw
- Meadow Lake – Big River – Green Lake – Pierceland
- Moose Jaw – Pense – Central Butte – Craik
- Outlook – Watrous – Hanley – Imperial – Dinsmore
- Prince Albert – Shellbrook – Spiritwood – Duck Lake
- Shaunavon – Maple Creek – Val Marie – Cypress Hills
- Swift Current – Herbert – Cabri – Kyle – Lucky Lake
- The Battlefords – Unity – Maidstone – St. Walburg
Environment Canada says residents and visitors of areas should take frequent breaks from the heat and spend time in cool, indoor places when possible.
“Studies have shown that we can all take a day of heat, but after a couple days the effects of the heat accumulate and your body doesn’t have much of a chance to recover, so we recommend people avoid the heat of the day if they can,” said Terri Lang, an Environment Canada meteorologist.
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Individuals should also stay hydrated with plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
People and pets should not be left inside a closed vehicle for any length of time.
Individuals are also advised to monitor for heat stroke and heat exhaustion symptoms, such as high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting and unconsciousness.
“Pay particular attention to individuals that can experience earlier or more severe effects from heat including infants, children, seniors, and individuals with pre-existing lung, heart, kidney, nervous system, mental health or diabetic conditions, outdoor workers, as well as those who are socially isolated.”
Extreme heat also poses a greater risk for pregnant people, older adults, people with chronic illness and people working or exercising outdoors.
The Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) issued a release reminding residents of other ways to keep safe during the warm weather.
The SHA said heat-related illnesses includes heat rash, heat (muscle) cramps, heat edema (swelling of hands, feet and ankles), and heat fainting.
People should stay out of the sun between peak hours of 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. if possible. If individuals need to be outside, SHA advices wearing appropriate sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and light, loose-fitting clothes.
If people don’t have access to air conditioning, they can go visit public spaces like malls, leisure centres and libraries.
The SHA added heat stroke is a medical emergency and individuals should call 911 or seek immediate medical help if they are caring for someone with a high body temperature, and/or someone who is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.
Those who take medications regularly should speak to their doctor about hot-weather activity and their risk of getting a heat-related illness.
Saskatoon city officials have activated a response plan to help residents deal with the weather, especially those who are vulnerable to the heat.
The city will ensure cooling locations, wellness checks and water bottle distribution is in place for those experiencing homelessness.
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