The Chief Health Officer has issued a warning that extreme weather forecast for next week could lead to a range of heat induced malladies.
To avoid death they recommend the following:
- — drink plenty of water to stay well hydrated and avoid alcohol or caffeine drinks that can increase dehydration;
— never leave children or animals in an unattended car. The temperature inside a car can soar rapidly within a few minutes. Heat generated in a closed car can cause serious illness or even death;
— keep as cool as possible by wearing light, loose, comfortable clothing;
— protect yourself from sunburn by wearing a hat and applying sunscreen;
— keep out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, and preferably stay indoors in an air?conditioned environment; and
— avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous physical activity, especially in the middle of the day
They go on with this warning:
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include nausea, faintness and dizziness, weakness, headaches, Vomiting and loss of sweating.
People showing these signs should be assisted to seek urgent medical attention by calling emergency triple zero (000) for an ambulance or through their GP or the emergency department of their nearest hospital.