Experts highlight ways to stay safe as temperatures continue to soar in Alberta
CBC
Calgarians need to brace themselves for what's coming as temperatures rise across Alberta, prompting experts to advise the public to stay safe.
Environment Canada issued a heat warning this week, stating that record temperatures may be set in the next few days with the heat wave expected to persist until July 23.
Daytime temperatures will likely be in the low 30s Celsius all week, which means it's important to exercise caution and adopt preventative measures, according to EMS public education officer Naomi Nania.
"If you are going to go outside … you can try and limit between the hours of 10 and two, which are usually the highest UV. And if you're not able to do that, when you do go outside, just making sure that you are applying sunscreen about half an hour before you go out," she said.
Nania added that reapplying sunscreen while being outside is recommended coupled with taking regular breaks from the sun.
According to Nania, vulnerable groups, such as seniors and young kids, need to be especially careful because they're more susceptible to experiencing heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and it's crucial to keep an eye on them.
Another big one? Hydration.
"It's really important that people are hydrating throughout the day. So clear fluids, lots of water, electrolytes are really important," Nania said.
General guidelines are always good to follow as well, according to the public education officer, who recommends wearing loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
The City of Calgary also recommends staying hydrated, taking regular breaks from the heat, and avoiding leaving pets or kids inside unattended cars.
According to Dr. Patricia Doyle-Baker, a doctor of public health and a professor in the kinesiology faculty at the University of Calgary, it's a good idea to be smart about exercising outdoors. Plan your workouts to start before 10 a.m. or later in the evening, when there's more shade on the streets.
"You should always wear a hat when you're exercising outside, particularly in this kind of heat," Doyle-Baker said.
She added it's recommended to immediately head back indoors if you feel unwell at any point.
Heat stroke and exhaustion are very real, according to Nania, who says common symptoms of the latter include dizziness, sweating profusely and feeling unwell.
