The Victorian Chief Health Officer has issued a Heat Health Alert for this Thursday across the Mallee region.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting a maximum temperature of 42 degrees in Swan Hill with overnight lows in the low 20s. It will come in the middle of a forecast six-day heatwave with daytime temperatures of at least 38 degrees.
Swan Hill Rural City Council reminds residents to exercise extreme care during the heat and think about how you and your family can stay safe.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious conditions occurring when the body’s temperature rises. Symptoms of heat exhaustion range from muscle cramps, dizziness and nausea to vomiting and fainting.
There are things we can all do to stay safe in the heat, like drinking at least two litres of water a day, seeking out air conditioned buildings, drawing blinds to keep the heat out and taking cool showers.
- Drink plenty of water and non-alcoholic fluids. (Note: If your doctor normally limits your fluids or you are on fluid tablets, you may need to check how much to drink while the weather is hot)
- Avoid alcohol (due to its dehydrating effects)
- Stay indoors, if possible with air conditioning, or in the shade
- Take a cool shower or bath
- Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
- Reduce physical activity
- Check on older, sick and frail people who may need help coping with the heat
- Never leave anyone in a closed parked car
- Don’t rely on fans to cool people unless they are well hydrated and there is adequate ventilation
- Know the signs and symptoms of excessive heat exposure and know how to respond
If you must be out in the heat:
- Limit outdoor activity to morning or evening hours
- Protect yourself from the sun and slip, slop, slap when outside by using sunscreen, wearing a hat and covering exposed skin
- Rest regularly in the shade and drink fluids frequently.
If you or anyone you know feels unwell on a hot day call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24, or call 000 in an emergency.
For more information visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/heat.