With temperatures expected to remain in the 40s this week, NSW Ambulance are reminding people to take precaution to beat the heat.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
or signup to continue reading
According to the Bureau of Meteorology temperatures are forecast to remain in the low 40s in some places around the Southern Tablelands.
He said some people are more susceptible to the health effects of heatwaves include the elderly, infants and young children, people who have to work in hot conditions, people on certain medications, people who are unwell or have chronic illness and people who live alone or are socially-isolated.
During periods of extreme heat the NSW Ambulance Inspector said it was vital to check in with your vulnerable community members, especially the elderly whether it be neighbours, family, or anyone who lives by themselves.
"Look out for each other, so keep in contact with your elderly friends, neighbours and relatives, especially during the hotter days," Inspector Loiacono said.
"For those that might have family out of town, it's good to check in on them and make sure they're doing ok as well."
Inspector Loiacono said there were many ways to reduce the risk of heat exposure including staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding sugary drinks, tea and coffee on days of extreme heat.
"The first most paramount one is staying indoors if you can, keep yourself cool, wear appropriate loose fitting clothing and stay out of direct sun especially during the peak periods of the day between 10am and 3pm," he said.
"Keep your windows and doors closed, keeping your fans on, air conditioning on when you can.
"Avoid extended periods of time on the road, and if you do need to travel in these times make sure you carry a couple of litres of drinking water with you and let people know where you're headed and what time you're expected to be there."
Signs of heat-related illness include confusion, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, weakness, headaches heavy or loss of sweating, muscle cramps, dry swollen tongue, rapid pulse and rapid shallow breathing.
"You've got heat exposure, then people talk about heat exhaustion, and then there's heat stroke, so there's three medical types that we can categorise people into," Inspector Loiacono said.
"Headaches, nausea or vomiting are some of the more serious signs of heat exposure which can then lead into a medical emergency of heat stroke.
"Obviously heat stroke is something that can be deadly especially if its left for a while, or the body temperature rises above 40 degrees, then that person needs urgent attention to reduce their temperature.
"If there is any concern call triple zero immediately our paramedics work 24 hours a day, seven days a week and they will respond to any call for help."
With the rise in temperatures, Inspector Loiacono said people should be aware of an increased presence of brown snakes and reminded those working in the garden or on a farm to take extra precaution.
"Long period of sun can bring out a high prevalence of brown snakes in the area," he said.
"Those working outside should make sure they're wearing long or loose jeans or trousers, leather shoes are preferred and again having some kind of communication tool whether it be a two-way radio or mobile phone, letting people know where you are because obviously snake bites can be deadly as well."
Zaarkacha Marlan
Court and crime reporter at the Daily Liberal. Formerly the sole journalist for the Nyngan Observer, Narromine News and Trangie Advocate.
Court and crime reporter at the Daily Liberal. Formerly the sole journalist for the Nyngan Observer, Narromine News and Trangie Advocate.
