That is the message being handed down to outdoor workers by Wagga-based St John Ambulance duty coordinator Leia Thiele. 

It comes as Wagga approaches its first 40 degree day since February last year, with the mercury forecast to hit 42 on Friday.  

“The most important thing to remember is to stay hydrated,” Ms Thiele said.

“That doesn’t mean soft drink, it means drinking a lot of water.”

Ms Thiele said it was crucial for workers to monitor how their body was feeling when working in hot conditions. 

“If someone is being active in the heat and starts feeling weak or experiencing headaches or nausea, those are all signs of heat exhaustion,” she said.

“When people start to feel the heat, it’s important to lie them down in a cool place with lots of air circulation, remove their unnecessary garments, sponge them down with cool water and give them fluids.

“If they vomit or do not recover, then seek medical attention.”

Carpenter Adrian Gaeta said carrying out physical labour during Wagga’s sweltering summers could take its toll. 

“It can really knock you around if you’re not careful,” he said. 

“You’re forever drinking water and really need your water, hat and sunnies.”