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High temperatures expected across British Columbia this weekend

This weekend is supposed to be a hot one and Environment Canada issued a heat warning for most of British Columbia, including parts of North Thompson.
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This weekend is supposed to be a hot one and Environment Canada issued a heat warning for most of British Columbia, including parts of North Thompson.

Too much heat can be hazardous to one’s health and can also lead to weakness, disorientation and exhaustion.

In extreme cases, it can also cause heat stroke, which can be a life-threatening medical emergency.

Environment Canada has offered some signs to watch for and suggested tips to keep people safe and healthy.

The demographics at the highest risk of complications from heat include infants and children up to four years-old who look to adults to ensure they’re hydrated and their surroundings are comfortable.

Folks more than 65 years-old who might not compensate for heat stress well enough and aren’t as likely to notice and respond to high temperatures also fall into the demographic.

People who are in good health, but do a lot of physical activity or work in a hot environment, as well as those with heart problems and breathing difficulties should also take extra care during the heat wave.

Some of the symptoms relating to heat-related sickness can range from mild to severe.

They include:

. pale, cool, moist skin

· heavy sweating

· muscle cramps

· rash

· swelling, especially hands and feet

· fatigue and weakness

· dizziness and/or fainting

· headache

· nausea and/or vomiting

· fever, particularly a core body temperature of 40° C (104° F) or more

· confusion and decreased mental alertness

· hallucinations

· red, hot, dry skin (in the late stages of heat stroke)

· seizures; and

· unconsciousness/coma

When caught early, a lot of the mild heat-related illnesses can be treated at home.

Some of the home treatments for mild heat exhaustion may include just moving to a cooler environment and drinking plenty of cool, non-alcoholic fluids and resting.

Taking a cool shower or bath can also help and wearing lightweight clothing goes a long way to keeping comfortable.

If symptoms last longer than one hour, change, worsen or cause concern, contact a health-care

provider.

Steps to take in avoiding heat related illness altogether include never leave children or pets alone in a parked car.

Temperatures can rise to 52C within 20 minutes inside a vehicle when the outside temperature is 34C.

Leaving car windows slightly open also won’t keep the inside of the vehicle at a safe temperature.

Drinking plenty of fluids, even before one feels thirsty, is important during days of intense heat.

Keeping cool by staying indoors, preferably in air-conditioned buildings, or taking a cool bath or shower before symptoms of heat stroke occur is a good preventative measure.

At temperatures above 30C, fans alone may not be able to prevent heat-related illness and a good tip to remember when outdoors is sunscreen will protect against the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, but not from the heat.

Trying to plan outdoor activities before 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when the sun’s Ultra Violet Radiation

(UVR) is the weakest, is also a good idea.

Avoid tiring work or exercise in hot, humid environments and if one must work or exercise, drink two to four glasses of non-alcoholic fluids each hour.

Rest breaks are important and should be taken in the shade.

Avoiding sunburn by using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is also recommended and wearing lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing and a wide brimmed hat, or using an umbrella for shade when out in the sun are all good tips.

For more information on heat-related illness, visit the HealthLinkBC website at www.healthlinkbc.ca or dial 811.