First responders urge precautions as Calgary swelters under heat warnings

As heat warnings in southern Alberta continue, first responders are urging those who work or play in the heat to be safe.

EMS spokesperson Stuart Brideaux said people need to make a plan if they are going to be outside in this stretch of warm weather.

"The top three basic things you can do is … stay hydrated at [all times], wear or carry your own shade or broad-rimmed hat that keeps the direct sun and heat off your face and neck, and apply sunscreen, using 30 SPF or higher," Brideaux said.

Those working outdoors should bring extra water, but if hydration isn't available, it's important to at least take a break in the shade.

"Better yet, get into an air conditioned environment for a little period of time before you go back outside," Brideaux said.

During stretches of hot weather, some groups are particularly impacted, Brideaux said, including young children.

"Physiologically, their bodies just operate differently than adults, but they also sometimes tend to care less," he said. "They'll go hard in the heat and sun and they don't realize the effects are catching up on them fast. So in children, for sure, fatigue or cranky irritability is a really early sign for heat exhaustion in young children."

Heat warnings issued by Environment Canada this week warn southern Albertans to take precautions to protect themselves.

The weather agency suggests rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day, taking frequent breaks and drinking plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages.

Symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion include high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting and unconsciousness.