As Saskatchewan faces a double whammy of hot temperatures and wildfire smoke, the Saskatchewan Health Authority is asking citizens to take precautions.
鈥淪moke concentrations can vary widely as winds, fire behavior and temperatures change,鈥� the authority said in a July 16 release. 鈥淐hildren, seniors, and those with heart or lung diseases are potentially at risk.鈥�
Heat-related illnesses include: heat rash (skin irritation), heat cramps (muscle cramps), heat edema (swelling of hands, feet, and ankles), heat fainting, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
To avoid becoming ill during periods of poor air quality and extreme temperatures, the health authority recommends the following:
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If smoke is affecting air quality in your area
鈥� Remain indoors during times that there is smoke in the air.
鈥斅營f you have fresh air shelters in your community, please utilize as directed by local health officials.
鈥斅燢eep doors and windows closed 鈥� if cooling is needed, use a fan or air-conditioning, if available. -
Stay out of the heat
鈥斅燢eep out of the sun during the peak hours of 11 a.m. - 3 p.m., if possible.
鈥斅營f you need to be outside, keep your exposure to smoke at a minimum, wear appropriate sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and light, loose fitting cotton clothes.
鈥斅燗void any extreme physical exertion and keep in the shade whenever possible. Stay indoors when smoke is affecting the air quality.
鈥� If you don鈥檛 have air conditioning at home, know where to go to cool down. Air conditioned public spaces include malls, leisure centres, libraries, etc. -
Cool yourself down
鈥斅燬tay hydrated with cold water and cold drinks, avoiding excess alcohol. Eat cold foods - salad and fruit with high water content is always a nice, light choice.
鈥斅燭ake cool baths or showers. -
Look out for others
鈥斅燢eep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people and make sure they are able to stay indoors to avoid smoke and keep cool.
鈥斅燛nsure that babies, children, elderly people, and pets have minimum exposure to smoke, are not left alone in stationary vehicles, or unsupervised when near open water.
鈥斅燙heck on elderly or sick neighbours, family or friends daily.
鈥淚ncreased symptoms from smoke that are greater than eye, nose or throat irritation, or symptoms indicating heat stroke could be a medical emergency,鈥� the authority said. 鈥淐all 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical assistance if you or someone you are caring for has a high body temperature and is either unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.鈥�
