By Jeff Labine

Hot weather yields warnings

Jun 1, 2017 | 2:00 PM

Even though the official start of summer is still weeks away, officials are reminding residents how to stay safe as the mercury climbs.

Environment Canada forecasted a high of 30 C on Thursday with a UV index of eight, or very high. The high temperature marks the hottest day in the city, so far this year. This is especially noteworthy since the average for this time of year is roughly 20 C.

The day was so hot, a heat warning was issued for several cities in the area including Tisdale, Melfort and Nipawin. The hottest June 1 in Prince Albert’s history was in 1948 when the temperature rose to 32.2 C.

Scott Ward, exercise therapist with Hillside Physical Health and Fitness, said when the weather turns hot, anyone being active needs to drink plenty of water.

“It’s important when you are doing physical activity, exercising, playing sports to always stay hydrated and even more so when you are doing them in the heat and humidity in the later spring and summer months,” he said. “You should be drinking before your activity, during your activity and after.”

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Ward, who is currently coaching a baseball team, often tells his team to wear hats and stay in the shade to prevent heat stroke from happening.

Lyle Karasiuk, the director of public affairs for Parkland Ambulance, said he was happy to see the warm weather, but it also means there’s greater chances for sun burns and dehydration. He said before people head out, they should put on sunscreen to better protect themselves.

“Apply that sunscreen at least every half hour as you engage in activity outside,” he said. “Remember a wide-brimmed hat, take frequent breaks and for those working…drink plenty of water.”

Sunscreen made the news lately after Health Canada announced it was investigating the brand Banana Boat. The Canadian Press reported there have been three complaints from mothers who said their babies developed burns after using the sunscreen.

Banana Boat issued a statement on Tuesday saying the sunscreen was retested and the batch appeared safe for use.

Karasiuk said anyone who has concerns over what type of sunscreen to use should speak to a local pharmacist.

“He or she is up to date on what’s available in terms of health recalls and what’s good,” he said. “Certain sunscreens, for example, you can’t use on smaller children. Some sunscreens because of your medical condition might aggravate or might not offer you enough protection.”

His best advice is for everyone to read the labels, speak to a pharmacist and check Health Canada’s website for any recent recalls.

Jeff.labine@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @labinereporter