It's going to get hot in Bendigo and that means you need to take care of yourself and others ...
Last updated: January 22, 2021
The temperatures in Bendigo are going to be extreme in Bendigo this week.
Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are serious conditions occurring when the body’s temperature rises and the internal organs start to shut down.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion range from muscle cramps, dizziness and nausea to vomiting and fainting.
The risk of heat stress is higher for young children as they sweat quicker than adults and are less likely to be able to tell you they are dehydrated.
There are simple things people can do to prevent their children from suffering dehydration, heat stress or worse.
Make sure they are drinking water rather than sport drinks or fruit juices and if you’re worried they might be dehydrated, ask them when they last went to the toilet. If it’s been a few hours then they’re not drinking enough. If it’s been over six hours then they are likely to be dehydrated.
Translated information: To get heat health and bushfire safety information in Karen, Dari and Dinka language click here
Here is some general health information for extreme heat conditions.
Who is at risk?
Extreme heat can affect anybody however the people most at risk are:
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aged over 65 years, especially those living alone
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people with a medical condition such as diabetes, kidney disease or mental illness
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taking medications that may affect the way the body reacts to heat such as: allergy medicines (antihistamines); blood pressure and heart medicines (beta-blockers); seizure medicines (anticonvulsants); water pills (diuretics); antidepressants or antipsychotics
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pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers
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babies and young children
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overweight or obese
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people with problematic alcohol or drug use
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people with a disability
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people who have trouble moving around such as those who are bed bound or in wheelchairs
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people who work or exercise outdoors
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people who have recently arrived from cooler climates.
If you or anyone you know feels unwell on a hot day call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24, or call 000 in an emergency.
Tips to survive the heat
There are simple things you can do to stay safe in the heat:
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Drink water - even if you don't feel thirsty, drink water. Take a bottle with you always. Drink at least two litres of water a day to keep your body hydrated.
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Hot cars kill - never leave kids, adults or pets in hot cars. The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes.
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Keep cool - seek out air-conditioned buildings, draw your blinds, use a fan, take cool showers and dress in light and loose clothing made from natural fabrics. If you don’t have air conditioning consider visiting a friend who does or make the most of cooler, public spaces such as a shopping centre or public library if you can’t beat the heat at home.
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Plan ahead - schedule activities in the coolest part of the day and avoid exercising in the heat. If you must go out, wear a hat and sunscreen and take a bottle of water with you.
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Help others - look after those most at risk in the heat – your neighbour living alone, the elderly, the young, people with a medical condition and don’t forget your pets.
Plan ahead for extreme heat
There are simple things you can do to prepare for extreme heat:
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Stock up on food, water and medicines so you don’t have to go out in the heat
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Store medicines safely at the recommended temperature
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Check that your fan or air-conditioner works well. Have your air-conditioner serviced if necessary
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Look at the things you can do to make your home cooler such as installing window coverings, shade cloths or external blinds on the sides of the house facing the sun.
If you or anyone you know feels unwell on a hot day call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24, or call 000 in an emergency.