91原创

Some families got a head start in keeping cool in 91原创 ahead of the heat warning that comes into effect Friday.

Many groups visited Douglas Park in 91原创 City on Thursday, the adults lounging in the shade while children ran through the spray park.

Brookswood resident Jaime Friesen was visiting the local park with her four kids, alongside friend Jana Wooding and her daughter.

Temperatures reached a high of 28 degrees in 91原创 on Thursday, according to Environment Canada. Starting Friday the weather is expected to heat up significantly.

鈥淎 dangerous long duration heat wave will affect B.C. beginning today and lasting until at least Wednesday,鈥� the weather agency reported.

READ MORE: B.C. cities prepare for the heat as record-high temperatures loom

Friesen was thinking ahead on how to stay cool.

鈥淭his weekend we鈥檙e going to hang out in our A/C at the house, our backyard with our sprinklers, little pools, maybe go to the water park,鈥� she predicted.

Daytime highs are expected to range from 32 to 39 C, with overnight lows of 18 to 21 C, Environment Canada estimates. They predict humidex values during this period to reach the high 30鈥檚 to possibly the low 40鈥檚.

鈥淎n exceptionally strong ridge of high pressure will develop over British Columbia likely resulting in record breaking temperatures,鈥� Environment Canada said.

鈥淭he duration of this heat wave is concerning as there is little relief at night with elevated overnight temperatures. This record-breaking heat event will increase the potential for heat-related illnesses.鈥�

Ready for the hot spell? 馃尅锔廐ere are some tips to keep you & your loved ones safe:

Heat Warnings:

鈥� ECCC Weather British Columbia (@ECCCWeatherBC)

The province of British Columbia advises the public to plan activity before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m., when the sun鈥檚 UV radiation is the weakest. To avoid sunburn, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher on exposed skin and an SPF 30 lip balm, remember to reapply often.

The weather agency suggests drinking plenty of water even before one feels thirsty and to stay in a cool place. Remember to check on older family members, friends, and neighbours.

Also, never leave people or pets inside a parked vehicle.

Monitor for symptoms of heat illness: dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, rapid breathing and heartbeat, as well as extreme thirst, decreased urination with unusually dark urine, Environment Canada said.

For more resources visit HealthLinkBC at , or call 8-1-1.