With severe to extreme heatwaveconditions forecast for much of NSW, NSW Health is reminding people to takeaction to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Heatwave conditions through to Sundayare expected to see temperatures climb into the mid-40s in western Sydney, withlimited relief overnight.
NSW Health Director of EnvironmentalHealth, Dr Richard Broome, said people should take extra care to keep cool by stayingindoors during the heat of the day and minimising physical activity.
“Staying indoors, drinking plenty ofwater and keeping exercise to a minimum can reduce the risk of heat-relatedillness,” said Dr Broome.
“Even though Australians are used tohot weather, we know that conditions like those forecast cause severe and evenlife-threatening illness.
“Heat puts a lot of strain on the bodyand can cause dehydration, heat stress and heat stroke. It may also makeunderlying conditions worse. People over the age of 75, people with chronicconditions and those who live alone are most vulnerable.
“Signs of heat-related illness includedizziness, tiredness, irritability, thirst, fainting, muscle pains or cramps, rapidpulse, shallow breathing, vomiting and confusion.”
Simple precautions can reduce the riskof heat-related illness:
- avoid the heat of the day by staying indoors andkeeping cool by using air-conditioning, fans and drawing blinds and curtains closed;
- keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water;
- check on the welfare of vulnerable neighbours,friends and family; and
- plan ahead for hot days.
“It’s important to get to a cool placequickly if symptoms occur. People showing severe signs of heat-related illnessshould seek urgent medical attention, in an emergency situation call TripleZero (000),” Dr Broome said.
More informationcan be found at the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat
