Heat Health

Heat Health

Extreme heat can affect anybody.Some people are more at risk, such as older people, babies and young children, pregnant women and people with a medical condition. Any hot day can pose a risk, not just days of extreme heat. 

Extreme heat conditions increase the likelihood of bushfires so it is important to keep up to date with fire warnings on these days.   

Stay Safe in the Heat

Stay cool on hot days:

  1. Stay in the shade or cool spaces: either in air conditioning at home, or your local council's cool space.
  2. Wear light and loose clothing.
  3. Block heat from entering your home with blinds and curtains. Avoid using appliances that produce heat, such as the oven.
  4.  Avoid exercising in the heat. If you must go out, wear a hat and sunscreen and bring a bottle of water.
  5. Use wet towels, put your feet in cool water, and take cool (not cold) showers.

Stay hydrated:

  1. Drink plent of water. Soft drinks and alcohol are not good for hydration, so it is best to stick with water.
  2.  Watch for signs of dehydration such as feeling thirsty, lightheaded, dry mouth, tiredness or changes in urine such as dark coloured and strong smelling or going less often.

Check in with family and friends:

  1. Check in on friends, family, and neighbours who are elderly and help them avoid the heat.

Plan ahead:

  1. Cancel or reschedule activities for a cooler time of day, such as early morning or the evening.
  2. Check the weather forecast.
  3. Be aware of the symptoms of heat related illness and when to seek medical attention.
 
Heat related illnesses

Heat affects everyone differently. It can cause serious and potentially deadly health problems or worsen exisiting conditions such as kidney or lung disease.

The information below is a brief list of some heat related illnesses, the symptoms and what to do.

If you are concerned about yourself or someone you know, call Nurse-On-Call (1300 60 60 24) for advice, or if it’s an emergency call Triple Zero (000).

Condition

Symptoms

What to do

Heat cramps

 

Muscle pains

Spasms in the abdomen, arms, or legs

 

Stop activity, and sit in a cool space

Drink cool water

Rest for a few hours before returning to activity

See a doctor if cramps persist

Heat exhaustion

 

Sweating

Pale complexion

Rapid pulse

Muscle cramps, weakness

Dizziness, headache

Nausea, vomiting

Fainting

 Go to a cool area and lie down

Have a fan on if possible

Drink cool water if not vomiting

Remove outer clothing

Wet skin with cool water or wet clothes

See a doctor or call 000 for an ambulance

Heat Stroke (this is a life-threatening emergency)

 

Very high body temperature

Red, hot, dry, skin (no sweating)

Dry, swollen tongue

Rapid pulse

Dizziness, headache

Nausea, vomiting

Collapse, seizure, loss of consciousness

 Immediately call 000!

While waiting for emergency medical help:

- Get the person to a cool, shady area and lay them down

- Remove excess clothing and wet their skin with water or wrap in wet cloths and fan continuously

- If the person is conscious and able to swallow, give them cool water to drink

- Position an unconscious person on their side if they’re breathing (perform CPR if needed)

- Seek further instructions from Triple Zero / ambulance / hospital emergency staff while waiting for the ambulance

 

 

Prepare for extreme heat days  

Many councils offer places with air-conditioning where people can shelter from the heat.  These often include council buildings, libraries or shopping centres.  Check with your local council for locations.   

Vic Emergency app - Being prepared and understanding warnings – information includes fire, extreme heat, water safety, and preparing for telecommunications and power outages.   

Department of Health – Heat health warnings  

Country Fire Authority – Plan and prepare for fires and CFA Fire Ready Kit  

To source translated material for someone who does not read English call 131450.    

The ABC Emergency website also provides information on general recovery, flood, bushfire, storm or cyclone and heatwaves.