file photo / paNOW staff

By Joanie Olson

Hot Summer Sun

Heatwave hits Saskatchewan

Jun 2, 2021 | 1:22 PM

The recent weather fluctuations continue to demonstrate the resilience of Saskatchewan residents.

After seeing wildfires, below temperatures, and frost over the past three weeks, heat warnings now cover the province.

The heat is great for working in the garden or spending time at the lake but it comes with a risk of heat illnesses. Parkland Ambulance Director of Public Affairs, Lyle Karasiuk shared the signs and symptoms associated with prolonged heat exposure.

“Feeling tired, then increasing thirst, you may feel dizzy, lightheaded, or nauseous,” said Karasiuk.

Other signs relating to heat exhaustion include a skin rash, muscle cramps, heavy sweating, and headache.

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Karasiuk says to drink water and find somewhere to cool down where there is shade and air conditioning. If you don’t have access to air conditioning, he suggested heading to a shopping mall, local library, or somewhere air conditioning is available to cool down.

“As the temperature rises, please find some shade, take frequent breaks, make sure you are well hydrated. Sugary drinks may taste great… but they don’t replace good old-fashioned water, and have way more sugar than our body actually needs. An apple or banana goes a long way and when the weather is hot, keeps us from getting dehydrated and keep you from getting hungry” he said

Heat affects people differently with some more susceptible to heat illness than others.

“Anyone who has a pre-existing condition affected by medication that regulates their pressure, so if you are taking blood pressure medication or a senior taking medication,” Karasiuk said. “Or someone taking dialysis or chemotherapy, sometimes their medication are bothered by extremes of heat or sun,” he said.

He suggested checking with a pharmacist or doctor to make sure that medications taken won’t affect your body’s way of regulating fluids inside.

Pets are affected by the heat much like people are and require care to stay cool and hydrated as well. Cars without air conditioning will get extremely hot very quickly and can run the risk of safety so to not leave pets or children inside a vehicle.

Karasiuk said with temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius over the week and through the weekend preparation is important. He also encourages everybody to not forget some sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and some sunscreen, and to enjoy the lake, splash park, or even a backyard paddling pool to stay cool.