Dealing with Heatwaves
Exposure to extreme heat can cause heat exhaustion, heat stroke and sometimes death. On hot days it is vital to stay safe during extreme heat.
What is a heatwave?
A Heatwave is a day or period where the average of daily maximum temperature and the overnight temperate of the following day is 30ºC or greater. This is determined by the State Health Department who monitors the weather forecasts from the Bureau of Meteorology and issues a 'Heat Health Alert' when the temperature threshold is reached.
On Heat Health Alert days the State Government Department of Health will issue warnings and information through the TV and newspapers.
Who is likely to be affected by heatwave?
Heatwave will affect some people more than others. People especially at risk are:
- Adults over 65 years of age
- Babies and children
- Pregnant or nursing mothers
- People with serious chronic health problems
- People taking medications such as diuretics
- People who have gastroenteritis.
What can you do to minimise the impacts of heat?
- Stay indoors and keep your home as cool as possible
- Never leave babies, young children or pets alone in your car
- Avoid going out during the hottest parts of the day
- Seek medical advice if you have a chronic medical condition
- Help others
- Drink regularly
- Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar
- Keep your pets cool & provide water
What does the Council do on Heat Health Alert days?
Yarra Ranges Council will prepare for and respond to heatwaves by assisting residents receiving home and community care, rescheduling outdoor events, extending swimming pool hours, issuing information to the public, and working with community groups to minimise heat related illness.
Heat stroke can develop rapidly and be life threatening
If you have any concerns contact your Doctor or Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24.
If you suspect someone has heatstroke, phone 000 for an ambulance.
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For information contact Public Health Services -1300 368 333