NCN Warns Citizens of Extreme Heat Conditions

Nisichawayayasihk Cree Nation Chief and Council and health officials are warning Citizens to take precautions during extreme heat conditions. With temperatures rising and humidity making it feel even hotter, we ask that you take the necessary measures to be safe and check in on elders, pets and friends regularly. Heat warnings are issued when very high temperature or humidity conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

Who is at risk:

Heat exhaustion can happen to anyone BUT the risks are greater for young children, pregnant women, older adults
People with chronic illnesses
People working or exercising outdoors
Overweight or ill individuals
People who work in the heat
People who exercise in the heat
People experiencing homelessness or are unable find spaces indoors

Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can result in heat-related emergencies, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. The best way to protect yourself and your family in case of a heat wave is to follow these steps.

Be aware and keep cool:

Watch for the effects of heat illness: swelling, rash, cramps, fainting, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and the worsening of some health conditions.
Check on your pets and animals frequently – make sure their needs for water and shade are met.
Never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle and ensure pets have ample water to drink
Check with your neighbours, friends and those at risk.
Be prepared for power outages, and have an emergency plan in place.
Check the contents of your emergency kit in case of a power outage.
Drink plenty of cool fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and check in with children and seniors to make sure they are drinking regularly.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they can cause dehydration, which stops your body from controlling its temperature properly
Arrange air conditioning and fans to help keep your home cool. Keep windows and doors closed when air conditioning is running.
Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day (typically between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.).
Dress for the heat and for your activity level with light, loose clothing to let air circulate and heat escape.
Always wear a hat and apply sunscreen.
Slow down your activities as it gets hotter. Move indoors and don’t work, exercise, or play outside for an extended period of time.
Take frequent breaks in a cool or shady area

Things to watch for in the extreme heat:

Check on vulnerable family members, Elders, friends and neighbours
Anyone who experiences a sunburn should immediately move out of the sun
A severe sunburn may require medical attention if it results in display blisters, facial swelling, nausea, fever or severe chills, rapid pulse or breathing, signs of dehydration, etc.
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke, can happen to anyone who stays in the heat and sun for too long.

Heat exposure can be a serious threat to health:

Watch for symptoms of heat illness, such as dizziness, fainting, nausea, headache, rapid breathing and heartbeat, Extreme thirst and changes of behaviour in children

Get help if you or someone you know gets heat stroke, is in a medical emergency or experiencing: