Tackling heat waves in Australia, part 2 - NSW Health fact sheet

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The following information is from NSW Govt's Health Emergency website. If you need emergency assistance, ring triple zero (000).

People suffer heat-related illness when their bodies can no longer effectively cool. Very high body temperatures can damage vital organs and the brain.

Heat-related illness is preventable by:
 

• Avoiding vigorous outdoor activities on hot days
• Drinking plenty of cool, non-alcoholic beverages (speak with your doctor if you are on a limited liquid intake program)
• Staying in air conditioned buildings (libraries and shopping centres are an alternative for people who do not have air conditioned homes)
• Avoiding prolonged periods in the sun
• Take a cool shower, bath or sponge bath
• Wearing lightweight clothing and sunblock
• Monitoring people at high risk (eg elderly neighbours)
• NEVER leaving children or pets unattended in cars.

Signs of heat exhaustion:

 

 

 

 

• thirst
• weakness and discomfort
• paleness and sweating
• rapid shallow breathing
• muscle cramps
• nausea and vomiting
• dizziness or fainting
• rapid heart rate

 

Recommend cool, non-alcoholic drinks, resting out of the heat, taking a cool shower, bath or sponge bath, and wearing lightweight clothing.

Signs and symptoms of heat stroke (a medical emergency):

 

 

• core body temperature > 40.5°C
• confusion or disorientation
• red, hot, dry skin (no sweating)
• rapid pulse
• severe headache
• dizziness
• nausea
• possible loss of consciousness
• shallow, rapid breathing

 

Encourage rapid cooling and contact emergency services.

Fact sheets on dealing with heat waves and heat related illnesses http://www.emergency.health.nsw.gov.au/heat/index.asp