As the summer weather heats up, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is reminding everyone to take precautions.
AHS is asking Albertans to watch for symptoms of heat stress, as the condition can be life-threatening.
Young children, older adults, and people with chronic health conditions are at the highest risk. Even healthy people participating in strenuous activity and those working outdoors during the heat may be at risk.
The provincial health agency says heat stress is primarily due to three main factors: UVA and UVB radiation, temperature, and humidity.
They suggest Albertans check for any forecasted heat warnings, check local air quality, and do activities early or later in the day when it is cooler.
For people trying to stay cool during the heat, AHS suggests:
- Use air conditioning if possible. If you don’t have air conditioning, go into the basement or visit a cool location, such as a shopping centre or library.
- Close your blinds or curtains and use awnings and shutters.
- Do activities early or later in the day when it is cooler.
- Try to avoid strenuous activities.
- Take frequent breaks and seek shade.
- Drink lots of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
The agency also says sun safety is important when outdoors.
They advise applying a sunscreen that screens out UVA and UVB rays and has an SPF of 30 or higher about 20 minutes before going outside and reapplying frequently.
Wearing light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat is also recommended.
