Extreme heat can affect anybody, but there are some who are more at risk: older people, young children, and people with a medical condition. It is also important to consider any hot day as a health risk.
Because heat can impact your health, we have put together some tips on what to do if you or someone you know has heat-related illnesses.
Extreme heat conditions increase the likelihood or bushfiresso it is important to keep up to date with fire warnings on these 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.
Click here for more information on emergency management.
It is important to remember heat affects everyone differently. It can worsen the condition for someone who already has a medical issue such as heart disease or diabetes, or those who are already not feeling well with another illness.
The below information is a brief guide but 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 |
