Heat warning for Calgary expected to last until Friday

Environment Canada has issued a heat warning for Calgary from Wednesday to Friday, with temperatures near 29 C and above.

The agency suggests rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day, taking frequent breaks from the heat, drinking plenty of water and not leaving pets inside a closed vehicle for any length of time.

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Children should also not be left in hot vehicles.

"Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion," said the national weather agency on its website.

Alerts have been issued for several other communities in southern Alberta.

Heat illness

Children, pregnant women, older adults, people with chronic illnesses and those who work outdoor are at greater risk.

"Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions," said Environment Canada in its advisory.

"Check on older family, friends and neighbours. Make sure they are cool and drinking water."

Adam Loria, a spokesperson for Calgary EMS, said they have seen heat-related emergencies over the course of this summer and that he wouldn't be surprised if there were more during this latest heat wave.

EMS keeps the ambulance cool for patients and applies cold compresses to help those who are overheating. If the patient isn't able to drink water, crews can administer an IV.

"What we're trying to get across to the public is to prepare yourself accordingly," he said.

Wednesday's high is expected to hit 30 C, while Thursday should get up to 31 C.

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