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News>Be prepared for the hot weather to continue
After recent spells of hot weather, Kingston Council is urging the community to prepare for the heatwaves to continue and to plan ahead when attending sporting matches on hot days.
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| While special attention should be given to older persons, children under five and even pets – which are also highly susceptible to heat-related illness and death; younger, fit person may also be at risk when undertaking sporting activities.
The Department of Health will directly issue information to the public before a heatwave is forecast. Information on how to prepare is also available on Council’s website at www.kingston.vic.gov.au/link/heatwave
It is important to prepare for heatwaves because they were a serious weather hazard that caused death and illness every year.
The hot weather we have experienced recently is expected to continue, so we want to keep emphasising to the community to be prepared for the next heatwave.
By the time a heatwave starts, the window of opportunity for effective action is very short. Council is advising people to prepare early because preventative measures can have a significant effect in reducing the number of heat-related death and illness.
Heat-related illness can range from mild conditions, such as heat rash or cramps, to life threatening conditions, such as heat stroke. Some of the early signs to look out for include headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, pale skin, weak pulse and high temperature.
There are simple things that can help you stay cool this summer including drinking plenty of water – even when you don’t feel thirsty, using wet towels to keep cool, closing curtains and blinds, and spending as much time as possible in cool or air-conditioned buildings, such as libraries and shopping centres.
If you’re attending a sporting match there are a few things you can take with you to help beat the heat including plenty of water, some frozen water bottles, foods with high water content such as salads and fruits, as well as hats, sunscreen, sunglasses, and towels that you can wet and place on your arms or neck. Wearing loose-fitting, light coloured clothing will also help you keep cool and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption will help avoid risks posed by heat.
Council has fact sheets and other information about preparing for heatwaves available online at www.kingston.vic.gov.au/link/heatwaveor by calling 1300 653 356.
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