WINNIPEG – The extended heat advisory for Southern Manitoba continues through the weekend. Daytime temperatures may reach highs above 30 C and overnight temperatures will remain very warm, with lows near 16 C.
Officials with the province said in a release on Friday, some areas may experience diminished air quality associated with the smoke from wild-land fires burning in Alberta and British Columbia. People may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.
Everyone is at risk for the effects of heat. However, during a period of prolonged heat, older adults, people with chronic illness, people on certain medications and people living alone have a particularly high risk for heat illness, especially if they are living in an urban area or do not have air conditioning. Others at greater health risks to heat include infants and young children and people who work or exercise in the heat.
Never leave people or pets alone in a parked vehicle or direct sunlight.
If a person has many of the following symptoms, their body may be overheating and at risk of heat illness or heat stroke:
- headache;
- red, hot and dry skin;
- dizziness;
- confusion;
- nausea;
- rapid weak pulse; and
- a complete or partial loss of consciousness.
The longer a person’s body temperature is above 40 C (105 F), the greater the likelihood of permanent effects or death. If these symptoms occur, immediately move to a cool place and drink water.
If someone has a high body temperature, is unconscious or is confused, call for help by dialing 911. While waiting, cool the person right away by moving them to a cool place, applying cold water to large areas of the skin or clothing, and fanning the person as much as possible.
Heat illnesses are preventable. The health effects of heat can be reduced by: