Province issues heat advisory, on top of Environment Canada air quality warning

With much of the provinceexpected to reach temperatures above 30 Coverthe next few days, the Manitoba government has issued an extended heat advisory for the province.

The warning from Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Livingreminds people to take precautions against heat-related illness.

People are advised not to leave people or pets alone in direct sunlight or in parked vehicles. They are also asked to be on the lookout for signs of heat illness or heat stroke, including:

• Headache.
• Red, hot and dry skin.
• Dizziness.
• Confusion.
• Nausea.
• Weak, rapid pulse.
• Complete or partial loss of consciousness.

To reduce the effects of heat, people are advised to:

• Drink plenty of liquids, especially water, before feeling thirsty.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Plan outdoor activities during cooler times of the day.
• Limit alcohol consumption.
• Avoid sun exposure and cancel or reschedule outdoor activities
• Go to a cool place, such as a mall, community centre, public library or place of worship.
• Take a cool shower or bath.
• Block the sun by closing awnings, curtains or blinds during the day

Compounding matters, the advisoryalso sayspeople could experience diminished air quality, due to smoke from forest fires burning in Alberta and British Columbia.

Earlier in the day Wednesday, Environment Canada issued anair quality warning in southern Manitoba assmoke from the fires in Alberta and B.C. hangs over the province.

The weather agency saidthe smoke wouldgradually dissipate throughout the day.

Until then, children, seniors andpeople with lung diseases are most at risk of increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath as a result of the poor air quality.

In theseconditions, even healthy individuals may experience sore eyes, tears, coughing and a runny nose.

Manitobansare encouraged to limit their time outside if breathing becomes difficult and turn off furnaces and air-conditioning units that may draw smoke indoors.

People with health questions or concerns can contact their health-care provider or call Health Links at 204-788-8200 or toll free at 1-888-315-9257.