Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for the Red Deer region with hot daytime temperatures and moderate overnight lows forecast for the next few days.
The temperature in Red Deer is forecast to reach a day time high of 29 C and an overnight low of 16 on Thursday; a high of 27 C and overnight low of 14 C on Friday; a high of 28 C and a low of 13 C on Saturday; a high of 25 C and a low of 11 C on Sunday; a high of 27 C and a low of 10 C on Monday; and a high of 29 C on Tuesday.
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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. People should monitor for symptoms such as high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting, and unconsciousness.
Pay particular attention to those who 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.
Dr. Ifeoma Achebe, medical officer of health with Alberta Health Services Central Zone, warned that heat stroke is a serious medical emergency.
“It can be life threatening. Once your body temperature rises to 40 C and above then you have to head to the hospital right away. Call an ambulance,” Achebe said.
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Residents and visitors are advised to take the following precautions to protect themselves, their families and neighbours:
• Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day.
• Take frequent breaks from the heat, spend time in cooled indoor spaces where possible.
• Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
• Check for children or pets before exiting a vehicle. Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle, for any length of time.
Achebe said when going outdoors people should also wear a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more at least 20 minutes before going out.
At home, she advised closing blinds or curtains to keep out the heat, and head to the basement.
For more heat health advice, visit: www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/heat.aspx.
szielinski@reddeeradvocate.com
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