With heat warnings sweeping across the province, health officials are urging everyone to take precautions to stay safe during the extreme temperatures.
Dr. Stanley Enebeli, medical health officer for Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) said that there is a spectrum of heat related illnesses. This includes skin irritation such as heat rash.
Continued exposure to extreme temperatures can lead to muscle cramps, and swelling of hands, feet, and ankles.
“If you continue to expose yourself to these extreme temperatures, heat fainting, heat exhaustion and of course heat stroke. Which is characterized as a medical emergency.”
If someone is suffering from heat stroke, he said the best thing to do is call 9-1-1. He noted that you should seek medical assistance if the person you are caring for has a very high body temperature, and is either unconscious or confused, and has stopped sweating altogether.
To avoid getting to that level of heat exhaustion, he reminds people to keep out of the sun during the peak heat hours of 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adding that if you do need to be out at that time to wear loose fitting light clothes, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Staying in a shaded area can help keep cool. If you don’t have air conditioning at home, knowing where you can go to keep cool in the community is beneficial such as the leisure center or library.
“It’s also important to stay hydrated with cold water and cold drinks, avoid access alcohol,” said Enebli. “Eat cold foods, you know, salads and fruits with high water content.” He noted that watermelon is always a good choice on a hot day.
He also recommended taking cool showers or baths and utilizing public swimming pools or recreational beaches. He noted that if heading to a beach or public body of water to check the Healthy Beaches app to check water quality as well as health and safety notices before entering the water.
Keeping living and workspaces cool is also important, especially those that are vulnerable. This includes, infants, the elderly, those with chronic health conditions as they are at higher risk, especially if they are unable to care for themselves.
“It’s important for us to look out for others and keep an eye on the isolated, the elderly, ill or very young people and make sure they are able to keep cool.”
During the high heat, he reminds the public to not leave babies, children, elderly or pets in a stationary vehicle, as it could have serious consequences.
By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your safety and well-being during this intense heat wave.