Sunscreen and water bottles are a must for people heading out to enjoy the sunshine
Stephanie Babych
People spend the sunny afternoon along the Elbow River in Stanley Park while a heat warning is in effect in Calgary on Wednesday, June 2, 2021.Photo by Azin Ghaffari/Postmedia
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Calgary was hotter than Hell on Wednesday, triggering a heat warning from Environment Canada that is expected to last until the weekend.
Hell, Mich., that is, where the temperature failed to reach 20 C.
With temperatures in Calgary forecast to surpass 30 C this week, Environment Canada issued a heat warning for the city and much of Alberta on Tuesday. The heat wave is expected to stick around until Saturday when rain showers are forecast to bring lower temperatures.
Sunscreen and water bottles are a must for people heading out to enjoy the sunshine. The UV index will sit around 9 to 10 this week, meaning there is a high risk of sunburn.
With city facilities such as spray parks and wading pools still closed, Carol Henke, spokeswoman for the Calgary Fire Department, anticipates people will flock to the river to cool down. Shes encouraging everyone to read up on proper water safety and the rules in place for anyone looking to float.
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Regardless of whether youre heading to a river or community lake or backyard pool, where theres water, theres risk. That is the most important thing to remember. No activity that involves water is risk-free, said Henke.
People riding any sort of watercraft on the river are required to wear a life-jacket. Alcohol and drugs are not permitted and people need to carry appropriate supplies such as a cellphone and water safety kit with a paddle, rope, bailing device, sound-signalling device and safety light.
Preparation is really, really important and reduces the risk when going out on the water, Henke said.
Maybe first-timers could consider renting a raft, because what we see sometimes are rafts that arent suitable for the conditions, they easily get punctured and people find themselves stranded.
Calgarians cool off in the Harvie Passage as temperatures hit into the low 30 C range in the city on Wednesday, June. 2, 2021.Photo by Gavin Young/Postmedia
She advises people to check the weather forecast, flow rates and water conditions online before planning a trip on the river. Storm ponds around the city are off-limits for recreation at all times of the year, Henke said.
More information about water safety and to check for boating advisories is available online at calgary.ca/csps/fire/safety-tips/safety-tips-for-water/river-safety.
The city is looking to reopen spray parks and wading pools by June 19, which will offer families more options to cool down outdoors on hot days. This year, theyre also tasked with figuring out how the facilities will operate with whatever COVID-19 restrictions are in place when they open, a spokesperson for the city said in a statement.
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During the heat warning, Environment Canada suggests people reschedule outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day and take frequent breaks from the heat. As well, people are encouraged to drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated drinks to stay well hydrated.
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, Environment Canada said in the special weather statement.
It is also advised that extra attention be given to children, seniors, pets or others who could experience more severe health effects in the gruelling heat.
Monitor for symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, such as high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting and unconsciousness.
Four-year-old Quin and her brother Noah, 3, play in the water along the Elbow River in Stanley Park while a heat warning is in effect in Calgary on Wednesday, June 2, 2021.Photo by Azin Ghaffari/Postmedia
sbabych@postmedia.comTwitter: @BabychStephanie
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