Tips on keeping cool in Winnipeg’s spring heat wave

With high temperatures forecast over 30 C for the next few days, a heat warning is in effect for the City of Winnipeg.

The city opened four water stations in and around downtown and issued a notice encouraging people who need a reprieve from the heat to cool down in air-conditioned libraries and leisure centres or take a dip in indoor city pools.

Water tanks have been put in place at 888 Main St. (Main and Stella near Mount Carmel Clinic), 300 Princess St. near Siloam Mission, 364 Furby St. (near Agape Table) and 190 Disraeli Fwy. (near N’Dinawemak).

Environment Canada’s heat warning urges people to protect themselves from heat exhaustion and to watch for signs of heat stroke.

Here are some tips to stay cool:

• Limit direct exposure to the sun; do outdoor activities during the coolest parts of the day.

• Drink plenty of water; take water with you if you have to go outside. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to drink it.

• Wear loose, light-coloured clothes. Don’t forget a hat.

• Close curtains or blinds.

• If you don’t have air conditioning at home, go to a cool place such as a library or community centre. Even a shady park might be cooler than your indoor space if it gets too hot indoors.

• Check on seniors and vulnerable people.

• Watch for signs of heat stroke. It could start with a headache, nausea, dizziness, or confusion.

• Treat heat illness as a medical emergency.