With temperatures expected to top 30 degrees Celsius for three days running in Thompson early next week, Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living is warning people in the province’s central and north to be aware of possible health effects.
“Environment and Climate Change Canada is forecasting high temperatures in Manitoba on Sunday, and climbing Monday and Tuesday,” says the province. “This system will bring hot conditions to central and Northern Manitoba (including Flin Flon, The Pas, Norway House, Lynn Lake, Thompson and may also include Grand Rapids), with some areas experiencing this extreme heat for two to three days.”
The health department says older adults, people with chronic conditions and people living alone are at higher risk of suffering a heat-related illness, especially in urban areas or if they do not have air conditioning. Infants and young children and those who work or exercise in the heat are also at risk.
People are advised to visit friends, older family members and neighbours to ensure they are staying cool and drinking water and not to leave people or pets alone in parked vehicles or direct sunlight.
The province also advises that drugs such as amphetamines, MDMA (ecstasy), cocaine, alcohol and cannabis, along with some medications, can increase the risk of overheating.
Heat-related illnesses can be avoided by drinking plenty of water, wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest part of the says, limiting alcohol consumption and taking cold showers or baths.
Heat illness and heat stroke symptoms include headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, a rapid weak pulse, complete or total loss of consciousness and red, hot, dry skin. The longer a person’s body temperature is above 40 Celsius (105 degrees Fahrenheit), the likelihood of permanent injury or death increases.
If you suspect someone is suffering from heat illness or heat stroke, you should move them to a cool place and have them drink water. If someone has a high body temperature, is unconscious or confused, call for emergency medical services and apply cold water to large areas of the skin and fan them as much as possible while waiting for help to arrive.
