Health officials are urging Murrumbidgee residents to prepare for hot weather conditions this weekend.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A heatwave warning has been issued from Thursday, November 26 which will last until Saturday, November 28.
Temperatures are expected to reach 35-40 degrees later this week and up to 42 degrees on Saturday.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District is urging people to take the risk of heat-related illness seriously.
MLHD director of public health Tracey Oakman said certain groups of people were particularly vulnerable to heat-related illness.
These include the over 75s, infants and children, people with a chronic medical condition and people who live alone.
However, Mrs Oakman said heat-related illness could affect anyone.
In other news:
"High temperatures early in the season can have a bigger impact on wellbeing as people are not yet acclimatised," Mrs Oakman said.
"Every year hot weather and heat waves cause illness, hospitalisations and sometimes even deaths."
During a heat wave, 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 said.
These simple precautions will help people minimise their risk of heat-related illness:
- Drink plenty of water, and remember to carry some with you when you're out and about.
- Avoid alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks.
- Plan your day around the heat. Stay indoors between 11am and 5pm 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.
- Don't forget your pets - ensure they have shade or bring them inside, and make sure they have plenty of water
Catie McLeod
Catie is a reporter at The Daily Advertiser covering health and Wagga City Council. You can contact her on c.mcleod@dailyadvertiser.com.au or 0475 819 651.
Catie is a reporter at The Daily Advertiser covering health and Wagga City Council. You can contact her on c.mcleod@dailyadvertiser.com.au or 0475 819 651.
