With daytime temperatures expected to reach the mid-30s in the coming days, officials with Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) have issued a Heat Warning for all of Alberta.
Officials say Heat Warnings are put into effect when daytime temperatures reach 30 – 35 degrees Celsius combined with overnight lows of 14 degrees Celsius or warmer; as these conditions pose a high risk of heat-related illness, such as heat stroke and heat exhaustion.
Residents are being advised to take the following precautions to protect themselves, family members, and neighbours:
- Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day.
- Take frequent breaks from the heat, spending time in cooled indoor spaces where possible.
- Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
- Check for your children or pets before you exit your vehicle. Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle, for any length of time.
Experts say infants, children, seniors and individuals with pre-existing conditions (such as heart, kidney and nervous system issues as well as mental health and diabetic requirements) are particularly susceptible to extreme heat and recommend watching for symptoms of heat stroke and heat exhaustion including high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting and unconsciousness.
More heat health advice can be found on the Alberta Health Services website.
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