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Heat advisory issued for Central Alberta

Alberta Health Services has issued a heat advisory for Central Alberta for the next 48 hours.Temperatures hit a high of 29C today and are expected to top out at 30C Thursday before falling to a high of 25C on Friday. Cooler temperatures are expected on the weekend.

Alberta Health Services has issued a heat advisory for Central Alberta for the next 48 hours.

Temperatures hit a high of 29C today and are expected to top out at 30C Thursday before falling to a high of 25C on Friday. Cooler temperatures are expected on the weekend.

Effective immediately, residents of and visitors to the Central Zone are advised to take the following precautions to protect themselves, their families and their neighbours from the potentially harmful effects of the sun (including burns, heat-related exhaustion and heat stroke):

• Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day.

• Take frequent breaks from heat, spending time indoors at cooled public buildings (including malls or indoor pools).

• Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.

• Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle.

• Apply a sunscreen of at least sun protection factor (SPF) 30, at least 20 minutes before heading outdoors. Be sure the SPF 30 screens out both UVA and UVB rays, and reapply frequently (as directed on product label).

• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses (with a UVA/UVB CSA certified seal).

• Wear light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and pants that cover skin.

People should also monitor for symptoms of heat stroke, including high body temperature, lack of sweat, disorientation, fainting and unconsciousness.

“Normal activity that may be safe on a cool day might be dangerous in current weather conditions. If you start to feel overheated, stop your activity immediately, seek shade and drink fluids,” said Dr. Digby Horne, medical officer of health for Central Zone in a press release.

“Seek medical attention immediately for any individual feeling faint. While awaiting medical attention, move the individual to a shaded area, and remove his or her outer clothing and shoes. You should also wrap the person in a wet towel until medical care is being provided.”

Particular vigilance is urged for vulnerable individuals, including children, seniors, individuals with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, outdoor workers, as well as those who are socially isolated.

For more information, go to http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/heat.asp or contact Health Link at 811.