As the scorching summer months approach, Willoughby City Council is urging residents to be prepared and stay cool. With heatwaves and sweltering temperatures hitting New South Wales, it’s crucial to take precautions to help safeguard the health and well-being of friends, neighbours and loved ones.
Willoughby Mayor Tanya Taylor highlighted the importance of fostering community support during these hot spells. “It is vital that we all check in regularly with elderly neighbours, friends, and relatives who may need help.
“Heat exposure can have dire consequences, including severe illness, hospitalisation, and, tragically, even death for the most vulnerable among us. Heatwaves can intensify underlying health conditions, leading to life-threatening medical emergencies such as heart attacks or breathing difficulties.
Simple precautions the entire community can take to ‘Beat the Heat’ include staying indoors, limiting outdoor activities and staying well-hydrated. If you have to go outside, seek shade or shelter. Keep your home cool by closing curtains and blinds to block out the sun.
“If you are struggling with the heat please try to find somewhere cool or consider spending the day in air-conditioned places like a friend’s house, shopping centre, or community space,” Mayor Taylor said.
Signs of heat-related illness can include: dizziness, tiredness, irritability, excessive thirst, fainting, headache, rapid pulse, nausea and vomiting, changes in breathing and confusion. For emergency medical assistance please dial 000.
It is also important to consider animals, both domestic and wildlife. Animals can be affected by the heat and similar to people require water, shade and rest. Leave bowls of water out in shady areas for any native wildlife that may be nearby.
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