Stay cool in summer heat

IN THE lead up to a hot summer, the City of Casey is reminding residents to prepare for the heat and take action to reduce potential health implications.
The heat has potential to affect anyone who does not take the necessary actions to look after themselves throughout the hotter days.
Heat can cause illness or increase the severity of existing health conditions, both of which can become fatal.
City of Casey Mayor Amanda Stapledon said residents should be cautious about the heat in summer.
“Whether you are at work, at home or on holidays, residents should not be complacent about preparing for the heat this summer,” she said.
She said that as well as caring for their own physical wellbeing, people should remain aware of their neighbours and take care in storing of food.
“Stay in touch with sick or frail family, friends or neighbours and keep food refrigerated or stored properly,” Cr Stapledon said.
“Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty, and stay out of the sun.”
Cr Stapledon also told residents to make sure they take care of their animals and to make sure they are never left without water.
“Don’t forget to ensure the safety of your pets in hot weather,” she said.
“Make sure pets have easy access to shade and plenty of clean, cold water throughout the day.”
She said above all residents should remember to ensure the safety of children during the warmer periods.
“Most of all, remember to never leave children and animals in parked vehicles, even for a short time.”
Early signs of heat stress include a head ache, loss of appetite, listlessness or feeling light headed.
These symptoms can indicate or lead to heat related illnesses such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
“During summer, many people are enjoying holidays, spending more time outside and being physically active,” Cr Stapleton added.
“Be aware of the change in your daily habits and make plans to avoid strenuous activity like home improvement, sport and gardening in the heat,” she said.
The Victorian Department of Health has described a heatwave as a period of unusual and uncomfortably hot weather that can affect anybody.
The department advises that health alerts will be provided three to four days before forecast heatwave conditions.
For more information on heatwave conditions, visit www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/heatwave.
Cr Stapledon said when experiencing a case of consecutive hot days, people should be aware of information advising them how to remain safe.
“Take sensible steps to prevent being affected by the sun and avoid overheating, so you can better enjoy your summer this new year,” she said.
Actions to remain safe include keeping hydrated and avoiding drinks with alcohol and caffeine, keep aware of vulnerable family and friends, check air conditioning works, do not leave children unattended and watch for news reports to stay up to date.
For more steps to remain safe, visit the Department of Health website at www.health.vic.gov.au.
For 24 hour health advice, contact NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24.
For more information visit the City of Casey website www.casey.vic.gov.au.