Sask. heat prompts temperature warnings, skin care advice

The first heat wave of the season stretched across much of Saskatchewan Thursday, prompting temperature warnings and reminders about skin care.

Temperatures hit as high as 33.5 degrees in Bratt Lake, while other cities and towns flirted with heat records.

Tisdale, Melfort and Nipawin were also under a heat warning Thursday.

Heat warnings are issued when very high-temperature conditions are expected to pose an elevated risk of heat illnesses, such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.

The clear skies and warm weather also spurred skin experts to remind people to apply sunscreen.

“You should have a sunscreen on that’s at least an SPF 30,” said Regina-based dermatologist Dr. Roberta McKay. “If you’re out doing activities such as sweating or swimming you need to keep applying it over and over.”

McKay said people with pale skin should wear a hat and limit time in the sun.

“There are companies that sell clothing that’s light, but doesn’t allow the sun to penetrate,” she said. “Definitely worth the investment to keep the sun away.”

McKay said she hasn’t had to deal with any severe sunburns yet.

“Usually it’s people who love the sun, but forget to put sunscreen on themselves,” she said.

“You don’t need to be out that long and you should limit exposure in the prime-time (10 a.m. to 3 p.m.) when the sun is intense.”