News Release
Heat Advisory issued for Edmonton Zone
EDMONTON – Due to elevated temperatures forecast for the Edmonton Zone of Alberta Health
Services (AHS), AHS has issued a heat advisory for the Edmonton Zone.
Effective immediately, residents of and visitors to the Edmonton Zone are advised to take the
following precautions to protect themselves, their families and their neighbors from the
potentially harmful effects of the sun (including burns, heat-related exhaustion and heat stroke):
Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day.
Take frequent breaks from heat, spending time indoors at cooled public buildings (including
malls or indoor pools).
Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle.
Apply a sunscreen of at least sun protection factor (SPF) 30, at least 20 minutes before
heading outdoors. Be sure the SPF 30 screens out both UVA and UVB rays, and reapply
frequently (as directed on product label).
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses (with a UVA/UVB CSA certified seal).
Wear light-coloured long-sleeved shirts and pants that cover skin.
Residents and visitors should also monitor for symptoms of heat stroke, including high body
temperature, lack of sweat, disorientation, fainting, and unconsciousness.
“Normal activity that may be safe on a cool day might be dangerous in current weather
conditions. If you start to feel overheated, stop your activity immediately, seek shade and drink
fluids,” advises Dr. Chris, Sikora, Edmonton Zone Medical Officer of Health, “Seek medical
attention immediately for any individual feeling faint. While awaiting medical attention, move the
individual to a shaded area, and remove his or her outer clothing and shoes. You should also
wrap the person in a wet towel until medical care is being provided.”
Particular vigilance is urged for vulnerable individuals, including children, seniors, individuals
with pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, outdoor workers, as well as those who
are socially isolated.
“Excessive heat can aggravate underlying medical illness such as congestive heart failure, and
can also be of heightened danger to children and seniors. Individuals who are socially isolated
may not know when or how to seek help, or be able to monitor their own symptoms.”
“We not only need to pay attention our own bodies; we also need to look-out for our neighbors
and loved ones,” says Dr. Sikora.
As temperatures are forecast to remain elevated for the next 72 hours, this heat advisory will
remain in effect for the next 72 hours, until 11 a.m., August 2, 2014.
For more information and advice, including advice specific to seniors, children, individuals with
pre-existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, and outdoor workers, visit:
http://www.albertahealthservices.ca/heat.asp
Albertans can also contact Health Link Alberta, toll free at 1-866-408-LINK (5465).
Pinoy Edmonton News 