As summer heat rolls into Rocky View County and area, staying safe and cool amid near record-setting temperatures becomes a top priority.
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada, on July 24, several places in Alberta including Calgary, Airdrie, High River, Lethbridge, and Waterton Park saw extremely high temperatures that surpassed previous records. Heat warnings were issued for Airdrie and the surrounding area last week.
With the recent sweltering conditions in mind, Alberta Health Services (AHS) is on a mission to ensure everyone can enjoy the summer while taking simple precautions to beat the heat.
Adam Loria, a public education officer with AHS, shared some insights and tips for a worry-free summer. He emphasized the importance of being aware of heat stress during hot weather.
“Children, the elderly, and people with certain pre-existing medical conditions may be particularly susceptible to heat-related illness but it is important that really everyone follows certain precautions,” he said.
According to Loria, even healthy individuals engaging in strenuous activities or working outdoors during hot days need to be cautious. Heat-related illnesses like heat stroke can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention if ignored.
To stay ahead of the heat, Loria recommends some simple yet effective measures. He advised scheduling outdoor activities for cooler times of the day, like early mornings or evenings, when the sun is less intense.
To protect the skin, Loria advised wearing light-colored long-sleeved shirts and pants.
“Try to wear waterproof sunscreen and an SPF of 30 at a minimum,” he said. “Ideally, that should be applied about 20 minutes before going outside and also reapply frequently when you are outside in the sun with perspiration and other factors in mind.”
Additionally, AHS recommends wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses with UVA/UVB protection and a CSA-certified seal to provide added protection to the face and eyes.
Hydration is key to staying safe in hot weather. To avoid dehydration, Loria stressed the importance of drinking plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to keep the body cool.
“Ideally, if you plan to spend a day outside, hydration with water should begin 24 hours before,” Loria said.
Loria also reminds everyone to look out for one another during hot summer days. Keeping a close eye on babies, young children, and elderly family members – especially those living in un-airconditioned homes or facing social isolation – can make a significant difference in their well-being during hot times.
“If you work outside, want to go for a walk or a jog, remember to take frequent breaks in a cool area if possible, just to help your body maintain its regular temperature,” he said.
One last piece of heat-beating advice Loria stressed is to never leave a young child or pet in a parked car with the windows down.
“The temperature in a closed vehicle can rise dramatically and rapidly and it can overwhelm a child inside that vehicle,” he said. “We need to keep in mind that in a matter of minutes even in the shade, no time a child should be left unattended.”
AHS offers a dedicated line to assist Albertans in staying safe and healthy during the summer. Individuals are encouraged to call Health Link at 811 for 24/7 health advice and support. Family doctors, walk-in clinics, and local pharmacies are other reliable options for medical advice. In case of emergencies, heading to the nearest hospital or dialling 911 is crucial.
