As temperatures soar this summer, it’s important for Albertans to stay safe and avoid possible heat injuries. Chris Kalyn, assistant supervisor with Alberta Health Services (AHS) EMS, said it’s possible to experience several types of heat exposure injuries during the summer months.
“Some of the common ones are heat stroke or heat exhaustion, often occurring when people are exposed to the sun or have inadequate intake of fluids throughout the day,” he said.
According to Kalyn, symptoms of heat injury include headache, weakness, dizziness, confusion and, in some cases, loss of consciousness. High body temperature, lack of sweat, disorientation and fainting are also listed as symptoms of heat stroke by albertahealthservices.ca
If you or a loved one is suffering from a possible heat injury, Kalyn said, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. In the meantime, he said, you can take intermediate steps like removing the person’s outer clothing and shoes and wrapping the person in a wet towel.
“You want to remove them from the hot area, take frequent breaks from the heat, just keep them indoors – sometimes, in a cool public building is a good idea, including a mall or indoor pool,” Kalyn said. “Make sure they’re drinking lots of water.”
Untreated heat injury can be serious, he added.
“There potentially could be [long-term effects],” Kalyn said. “Like any medical problem with someone losing consciousness, there could be breathing issues. It can also exacerbate any underlying medical illnesses, such as congestive heart failure.”
Kalyn said prevention is the best way to avoid heat injuries. Individuals should pay attention to the forecast and plan their days accordingly.
“We urge Albertans to keep an eye out for heat warnings,” Kalyn said. “These heat warnings are issued by Environment Canada and they’re posted online.”
If a heat warning is in effect, he said, you might consider rescheduling outdoor activities to the cooler hours of the day, and take frequent breaks from the heat. Kalyn also noted plenty of water should be consumed to stave off dehydration, and alcohol and caffeinated beverages should be avoided. Additionally, wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and light-coloured, long-sleeved shirts and pants will aid in limiting exposure to the sun.
Children and seniors are more prone to dehydration, Kayln added, and should be monitored for health impacts related to the heat.
Outdoor workers can be especially susceptible to heat injury, due to long hours spent exerting effort in the sun. Kalyn said outdoor workers should take care to ensure they stay hydrated, and consider taking breaks before exhaustion sets in.
