A combination of factors has resulted in uncommon levels of humidity here in Saskatchewan this summer.

First and foremost, the mass rains that have doused most regions of the central and southern portions of the province is helping with the higher than normal levels of humidity. Also occuring recently is low-pressure systems in and around the Montana region which has swirled moist, humid air from regions in the United States and pushed that air into portions of Alberta and Saskatchewan. Thirdly, the temperature recently is quite high and evaporating much of the moisture found in fields, also known as "crop sweat".

The combination of the three leaves a humidity level not usually seen here in Saskatchewan and because of the build-up of moisture levels, the humidity is likely to remain throughout the rest of the summer. The humidity levels will affect everything from crops to people trying to work outdoors.

Some tips to remember when working or just being outside in the humid heat:

Staying hydrated

The average person has 2.6 million sweat glands. These glands are activated when a portion of the brain determines that the body needs to be cooled down. Sweat evaporates off our skin which allows for heat loss and cooling. However, when we sweat, we also lose water and electrolytes (i.e., “salts” such as sodium, chloride, potassium). Drinking enough water and having enough electrolytes is necessary for our bodies to function properly. This is why it is so important to stay hydrated; a dehydrated person is likely to start having symptoms of heat illness.

West Central Online recommends that for moderate activity in moderate conditions, each worker should drink 1 cup of water every 15 to 20 minutes. Workers should be reminded to drink water frequently before becoming thirsty in order to maintain good hydration. While some workers may prefer the taste of sports drinks, often these types of drinks are not necessary for electrolyte replacement. Workers that eat regular meals and salt-containing snacks will usually be able to replace electrolytes lost during sweating.

In addition to providing plenty of water in convenient locations close to the work site, employers can provide urine color charts near toilet facilities. These charts show the urine colors of a hydrated person compared to a dehydrated person. The darker the urine, the more likely your body is dehydrated.

Keeping cool

Even when the body is at rest, we are internally producing heat through metabolism (breaking down the food we eat into energy). However, during physical exertion, working muscle produces heat at a much higher, faster rate. This increased heat production can result in an increase in body temperature, which above a certain temperature, can be difficult to control. Therefore, it is important to develop ways to cool down the body to help maintain core temperature and reduce the negative effects of thermal stress.

West Central Online reccommends to take regular rest breaks. Breaks should be held in a shaded or air conditioned area. Employers and supervisors should be monitoring weather reports daily, and if possible, jobs with high heat exposure should be rescheduled to cooler times of the day. The use of reflective clothing, water-dampened cotton clothing (although this may not work when the humidity is very high), and cooling vests with pockets for cold packs may also be beneficial for keeping workers not only cooler for longer periods of time, but also safer.

Also, be sure to wear sunscreen, wear a hat, wear UV-absorbant shades and limit exposure to the sun. The sun is hottest between 10 AM and 4 PM.

For the Government of Saskatchewan's Hot Conditions Guidelines, click here.