Manitoba Health Issues Heat Advisory Amid Prolonged Hot and Humid Conditions

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Manitoba Health Issues Heat Advisory Amid Prolonged Hot and Humid Conditions

July 25, 2024

Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care has issued a heat advisory as hot and humid conditions are expected to persist across most parts of the province. The advisory emphasizes that everyone is at risk for the effects of heat, with a particular focus on those who work or exercise outdoors.

According to Environment and Climate Change Canada temperatures in southern Manitoba could exceed 30c with the humidex values reaching 38-40 over the next several days

Precautions for Outdoor Workers:

Stay Hydrated: Drink cold water regularly and avoid excessive caffeine and sugary drinks.
Take Breaks: Rest in ventilated, cool, and shady areas.
Dress Appropriately: Wear breathable, lightweight, loose, and light-coloured clothing.
Use Sunscreen: Apply water-resistant SPF30 or higher sunscreen and reapply every two hours.
Recognize Symptoms: Be aware of heat-related illnesses in yourself and colleagues.
Medication Awareness: Certain medications, recreational drugs, or pre-existing conditions may affect your ability to feel heat and sweat.
Wear Hats: Use wide-brim hats or similar headgear.
Work Schedule: Start outdoor work early and do indoor tasks during the hottest parts of the day.
Acclimatize: Gradually increase working hours in the heat over several days.
Improve Airflow: Work in spaces with air flow and add fans if possible.
Mist Yourself: Regularly mist yourself with water.
Eat Cool Foods: Consume cool foods such as fruits.

Employer Responsibilities:

Heat Stress Plan: Develop a heat stress exposure control plan and provide emergency procedures and first aid materials.
Modify Environment: Reduce heat exposure by providing shade, drinking water, and fans.
Prevent Isolation: Avoid having employees work alone and ensure communication systems are in place if unavoidable.
Adjust Work Cycles: Rotate work/rest cycles and schedule hard physical activities for the coolest parts of the day.
Educate Workers: Train workers to recognize and address heat-related illnesses.
Acclimatize Employees: Gradually increase the number of working hours in the heat over several days.

Manitoba Health urges everyone to take these precautions seriously to prevent heat-related illnesses and ensure safety during this period of extreme weather.