FOLLOWING several days of sweltering temperatures, Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad has urged locals to take extra care as blazing forecasts continue.
“As we move into the real heat of summer, it’s important to be aware of the hazards of extreme heat, especially as we are likely to be spending more time outdoors with family and friends in our beautiful region,” she said.
“Heat kills more Australians than any natural disaster, and we have already seen days where the temperature has reached 40 degrees in parts of northern Victoria.
“Heat can cause serious and potentially fatal health problems such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, [and] it can trigger heart attack or stroke, or worsen existing medical conditions.
“While extreme heat can affect anybody, those most at risk include people aged over 65, babies and young children, pregnant women, people with existing health problems, and those who are socially isolated.”
Ms Broad encouraged locals, whether they were spending time predominately indoors or outdoors, to keep cool, stay hydrated, and check in with friends and family on hot days.
“In the event of a medical emergency such as heatstroke, call 000,” she said.
Residents should also consider applying a minimum of SPF50 to exposed areas, and wear a hat and sunglasses to prevent UV damage to the eyes.
While sunscreen should be worn all year round to prevent skin damage and soften signs of aging, UV ratings of 3 or higher indicate the ability to be burnt, and should be applied on these days. UV ratings during summer typically sit at 11 or higher, the maximum rating that can be issued, with skin able to be burnt within just 10 minutes.
For more information on how to be SunSmart, visit www.sunsmart.com.au. For more information on how to stay safe in extreme heat, visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/how-to-cope-and-stay-safe-in-extreme-heat.
