Beat the heat

Heatwaves kill more people than any other natural disaster, but they do not have to be dangerous, uncomfortable or exhausting.

With some forward planning and smart thinking you can help to ensure you remain comfortable and healthy during the heat.

It’s about more than simply coping on the day, but thinking about what you can do in advance across each of these 3 areas:

1. Keep yourself cool

2. Manage your living space

3. Improve your home

 

Recognising heat-related illness

Heat can cause illnesses such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion which can lead to the life-threatening condition, heatstroke. Heatstroke is fatal in up to 80% of cases.

Heat can also worsen the condition of someone who already has a medical issue such as heart disease or diabetes. Most reported illness and death is due to the effect of heat on those who are already ill.

If you or someone you know is unwell call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24 for 24-hour health advice or see your doctor. 

In an emergency, call 000. 

Know the symptoms and treatment of heat-related illness - visit the Better Health Channel for information.