Photo: SNSWLHD
With temperatures in some parts of the region expected to nudge forty degrees this week comes a warning about the impact that heat will have on vulnerable people and some advice on getting through it.
Southern NSW Local Health District, Director Public Health, Tracey Oakman says while heat-related illness can affect anyone, certain groups are at a higher risk.
These include the over 75s, infants and children, people with a chronic medical condition and people who live alone.
“Every year hot weather and heat waves cause illness, hospitalisations and sometimes even deaths,” Mrs Oakman says.
“During hot weather, it is very important to stay in regular contact with your elderly friends, neighbours and relatives, and to look out for other vulnerable members of your community.
“Heat puts a lot of strain on the body and can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
“It can also make underlying health conditions worse. However, being prepared and taking some simple precautions can reduce the risk of heat-related illness,” Mrs Oakman advises.
Simple precautions to help minimise the risk of heat-related illness:
- Drink plenty of water, and remember to carry some with you when you’re out and about;
- If you are travelling, make sure you take water to drink in case you break down or are delayed;
- Avoid alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks;
- Plan your day around the heat. Stay indoors between 11 am and 5 pm and minimise physical activity;
- Keep the sun out of your house by shading windows with an awning, shade-cloth or plants. Shutting curtains will also help.
Meantime the Rural Fires Service have issued a Total Fire Ban for the Southern Slopes and Ranges, with Fire Danger Ratings across Southen NSW between High and Very High.
Starting today (January 15), temperatures in Cooma are forecast to sit in the mid to high thirties until Friday, Goulburn will reach 38 – 39 degrees Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, Jindabyne will peak at 36 degrees tomorrow, Braidwood will peak at 37 degrees on Friday, Batemans Bay 35 degrees, Bega 34 degrees.
A cool change on Saturday will see temperatures back below thirty degrees across the region.
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