July 3, 2013
Heat Advisory
Hot and humid conditions are present throughout Manitoba at this time. Very hot conditions are anticipated in the north and midwest part of the province this afternoon and evening. Higher temperatures and humidity levels are forecast to continue throughout the week.
The Chief Provincial Public Health Officer is reminding Manitobans to take precautions to prevent heat-related illness.
The effects of heat can be reduced by:
- drinking plenty of liquids, preferably water, before feeling thirsty;
- limiting physical activities;
- wearing a wide-brimmed hat or using an umbrella;
- wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing;
- going to a cool place such as a mall, restaurant or movie theatre for a break from the heat if there is no air conditioning at home;
- taking a cool bath or shower; and
- limiting alcohol consumption.
Remember to check on family members, neighbours and friends when it gets hot, especially older adults and people with chronic conditions. Do not leave people or pets in your care alone in closed, parked vehicles or in direct sunlight.
It’s important to wear sunscreen to prevent sunburn when outdoors. Having sunburn can make it more difficult for your body to cope with heat.
Exposure to heat for too long a period can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, worsening of other health conditions or, rarely, death. Symptoms of prolonged heat exposure include headache, nausea, weakness, dizziness, fainting, confusion, rapid breathing and dehydration.
If caring for someone with any of these symptoms, move them to a cool or shaded place immediately, encourage them to drink sips of water or other liquids, sponge skin with cool water and fan the person as much as possible. Emergency medical attention may be required depending on the severity of symptoms.
Health risks related to heat are higher for older adults, young children, those on certain medications, people with chronic health conditions and people living alone. However, everyone is potentially at risk. The effects of heat can build up over a few days if the temperature and humidity do not drop. Plan activities carefully and look for opportunities to get a break from the heat.
Remember the five key points on preventing heat-related illness:
- plan activities carefully,
- drink water regularly ,
- seek cool places,
- check on others, and
- know the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness.
For more information on heat and health, call Health Links–Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or 1‑888‑315‑9257 (toll-free) or visit:
- the Manitoba government: www.manitoba.ca/health/publichealth/environmentalhealth/heat.html;
- Health Canada: www.healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2012/15003a-eng.php;
- the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority: www.wrha.mb.ca/healthinfo/news/2010/100702.php; or
- for workplace concerns: www.safemanitoba.com/.
Weather forecasts are available from Environment Canada at 204-983-2050 or www.weather.gc.ca.
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