A special air quality statement and heat warning are both in effect for Red Deer and central Alberta.
Environment Canada issued the special air quality statement at 2:46 p.m. Saturday.
“Persons in or near this area should be on the lookout for adverse weather conditions and take necessary safety precautions,” Environement Canada said.
As of 2 p.m., Red Deer had a rating of four on the Air Quality Health Index, which identifies a “moderate” risk. The Government of Alberta’s forecast shows a rating of three is expected for Sunday, which identifies a “low” risk.
A heat warning was issued by Environment Canada at 10:42 a.m.
“Daytime high temperatures in the low to mid thirties with overnight lows in the mid teens will continue through the weekend. Cooler temperatures will move into the province on Monday,” said Environment Canada.
People in central Alberta are advised to take the following precautions to protect themselves, their families and their 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.
Environment Canada says people should monitor for symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, 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.”
Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
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