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Before Australia scorches in the first heatwave of the season, top doctors are reminding people that extreme heat can be deadly.
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners President Dr Michael Wright said people need to remember three key things to stay safe this week – stay cool, stay hydrated and stay indoors.
“My advice for all Australians is to drink plenty of water, try to stay indoors if possible during those peak UV hours of 11am to 3pm, and remember to ‘slip, slop, slap’,” he said.
“It’s also important to check in on friends and family members who are more vulnerable to the impact of heat waves, including older people.”
Doctors are urging people to stay hydrated during the heatwave. Credit: Getty Images
Dr Wright said almost a third of hospitalisations due to extreme heat occur in people over 65, but warned it’s not only older Australians who can experience severe health issues when the mercury rises.
“If someone cannot seek reprieve from soaring temperatures this can place an enormous strain on their body,” he said.
“As Australians, we’re accustomed to hot weather; however, we must not underestimate the serious health effects that can occur – even for young and healthy people,” he said.
“Heatwaves have caused the most hospitalisations related to extreme weather over the last decade, and the risk of hospitalisation increases with age.
“So, please spread the word to people in your life – stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay indoors if you can.
“At the same time, please make sure to check in on people in your life to ensure they’re OK. This includes not only older patients, but also infants, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as people with chronic disease and those with conditions that may impair sweating.”
