The Saskatoon Emergency Management Organization has activated the city’s extreme heat emergency response all week through till next Monday. The urge residents who plan to enjoy the outdoors to have a plan to stay cool and stay hydrated.

Officials warn that extreme heat can cause everything from dehydration and heat exhaustion to heat stroke. They say extreme heat can be especially dangerous when indoor temperatures are above 26°C for an extended period of time, your environment doesn’t cool down overnight, you do not have access to air conditioning, and humidity rises.

Heat illness is mainly caused by being over-exposed to extreme heat, especially if you are doing too much for your age and physical condition. Different types of heat illnesses include heat rash, heat stroke, heat fainting, heat exhaustion, muscle cramps, swelling of hands, feet, and ankles.

Common symptoms include headache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness or fainting, rapid breathing and heartbeat, extreme thirst and in children a change in behavior like sleepiness or temper tantrums.