Locations to receive an increase in AV resources this summer include Bendigo, Echuca and Mildura.
Bendigo and Echuca will have an extra ambulance crew from Fridays to Mondays over the summer holidays in peak times.
Mildura will have similar surge resourcing during the holiday period for people visiting the regions for longer holiday stays.
Paramedic resources will also be boosted in these locations, as well as in Gisborne, on New Year’s Eve and Australia Day.
AV Loddon Mallee Director Regional and Clinical Operations Matt McCrohan said the extra hands on deck is a feature of AV’s operational planning for summer every year, and ensures the community is well-served during the holiday period.
“We’ll see a great deal of holidaymakers and travellers venture through these communities over the coming weeks,” he said.
“It’s a high-risk period, with more people visiting rivers, lakes and pools, spending time out in the heat, and travelling on our region’s roads.
“We work hard to ensure we can continue to provide best care and timely responses to those who need us during these busy periods.”
As people plan their getaways over the coming weeks, now is a timely reminder to stay safe this summer.
Mr McCrohan said there are a number of simple preventative steps people can take to keep themselves and their loved ones safe in extreme heat.
“Remember to stay hydrated and drink water regularly throughout the day,” he said.
“Avoid being outside during the hottest time of the day and keep cool by using air conditioning and fans whenever possible.
“Heat can cause serious illnesses including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.”
Heat stroke is fatal in up to 80 per cent of cases but is entirely preventable.
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. If you or someone else is experiencing symptoms such as confusion, seizures, collapsing or loss of consciousness, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
If you’re feeling unwell, you can also contact the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED), visit a Priority Primary Care Centre, call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24 or see your doctor or local pharmacist.
