With temperatures above 30 degrees in the forecast for the remainder of the week, the Okotoks Fire Department is reminding residents to safely enjoy the heat.

Fire Chief Ken Thevenot says they do see cases of heat stroke or heat exhaustion every Summer, but it's very preventable.

"We do respond to medical concerns at times with this heat," he says. "For sure, wear a hat, try to stay in the shade as much as possible, but the biggest thing is just re-hydrating all the time, try to drink plenty of water throughout these hot times."

It's common for many families to use their barbecue instead of their oven when it's hot out, and Thevenot says the Fire Department responds to quite a few barbecue-related calls in the Summer.

He says there are a some safety tips to remember when using your grill.

"Barbecue outside," Thevenot says. "Keep the barbecue three feet from your house, make sure the lid is always open before lighting, don't put any starter fluid on lit coals, because that will flare up on you, and if your barbecue happens to go out, wait 15 minutes before re-lighting because of the gas accumulation-let it dissipate."

Thevenot says another safety concern during a heat wave is residents using the Sheep River to cool off.

While drifting down the river isn't recommended, Thevenot says safety needs to be top of mind if you do decide to take a float.

"It is warm, but always keep those life jackets on," he says. "Stay away from what we call sweepers and strainers-the trees above and below the water lines-and make sure you are re-hydrating with water if you are still floating on the river."

Thevenot says even if you're just wading or taking a dip in the river, there are still risks to keep in mind.

"The river bed has changed, it always changes because of that current," he says. "It could be soft, or it could be deceiving, and you could lose your footing. So, again, please make sure you wear your life jacket at all times when you're on the river."

Finally, Thevenot says there's one more safety risk that comes with the heat that many don't realize.

He says it's important to keep fans off and unplugged whenever they're not in use, especially overnight, as it poses not only a fire hazard, but a risk for young children and pets.