Children may be at risk during heatwaves

14:27' 15-01-2019

As Victoria braces for soaring temperatures in the coming days, Mayor of Brimbank, Cr Lucinda Congreve is urging residents to think about how you, your family and those in your care stay safe in the heat.

Photo: Know Risk

“We’ve already experienced some extreme temperatures this summer, and the long hot summer is expected to continue.

“Sadly that means more deaths from extreme heat.

“It’s a sobering fact, but extreme heat kills more people in Australia than any natural disaster,” Cr Congreve said.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke 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 in young children as they get hotter faster than adults and their bodies are less able to regulate temperature. They are also less likely to be able to tell you they are dehydrated.

“There are simple things people can do to prevent their children from experiencing dehydration, heat stress and 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.

“Also, never leave kids, pets or adults in a parked car. The temperature inside a car can double within minutes and can lead to heat exhaustion and death,” the Mayor said.

Cr Congreve encouraged Brimbank residents to make the most of cooler, public spaces if they could not stay cool at home.

“For really hot days, if you don’t have air-conditioning, consider visiting a friend who does, or an air-conditioned shopping centre, your local library or leisure centre.

“If you or your kids feel unwell on a hot day call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24 or call 000 in an emergency,” the Mayor said.