By Brady Lang
From young to old, everyone handles the heat differently.
With the stretch of sustained heat hitting Saskatoon, it’s important to make sure everyone is safe.
When it comes to seniors, staying hydrated is a must, according to Greg Charyna, owner and managing director of Home Instead Senior Care.
“Make sure that there’s plenty of water available, sometimes a glass in every room of the house to encourage the client to drink, even if they aren’t thirsty,” he said.
Charyna said wearing lighter clothing and checking up on seniors will go a long way to ensure their safety in the heat. He added that every case is different, due to medication and medical backgrounds.
On the other side, children are a little harder to protect when it comes to how they’re feeling about the weather.
Making sure that they stay hydrated, that their activity time in the sun is limited and that they have access to shade is crucial when it comes to preventing issues with the high temperatures.
Genaya Wojcichowsky, director of Spadina Early Learning and Childcare Centre’s Princess Alexandra location, said there are some signs to watch for, even though the kids may not be able to convey how they’re feeling.
“We watch for the child’s level of activity,” Wojcichowsky said. “You can tell if they’re feeling lagged from the heat, (if) they’re not participating and are (acting) stand-offish. You can tell by the colours of their face, or if they’re sweating (as well).”
Taking these extra precautions when it comes to the heat will ensure everyone can enjoy the summer months, regardless of the conditions outside in Saskatchewan.