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By Brian Konrad

People staying safe during unrelenting heat: AHS

Aug 17, 2022 | 3:03 PM

MEDICINE HAT — So far this month we’ve only had three days where the daytime high didn’t top 30 C.

There have been daily heat warnings from Environment Canada, with directions for people on how to deal with the heat and avoid heat related injury.

So far, the message appears to be working, as Alberta Health Services says they’ve not seen high numbers of people seeking medical attention in ER departments.

“While we don’t really know what measures people are taking to stay cool and protect themselves from the heat, but it is encouraging that we know there are low numbers presenting to our emergency departments,” according to Dr. Allison Gonsalves, medical officer of health with AHS South Zone.

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Gonsalves says they suspect that means people are listening to heat-related messages of prevention.

She says people need to pay attention to the heat warnings, listen to their own body and take precautions including rescheduling outdoor activity to mornings or early evening when it’s cooler, wearing light-coloured clothing that covers your arms and legs and always wearing a wide brim hat.

Taking advantage of air conditioning in malls or public spaces is also a good idea, though Gonsalves says it’s still a good idea to maintain social distances as a precaution.

While people may feel they’ve grown accustomed to the heat, Gonsalves says it’s still important to listen to the heat warnings and to your own body and follow the preventive measures included in the heat warning.