Be prepared for summer heat

It is vital to be prepared for high temperatures during the upcoming summer season. WA Health Chief Health Officer, Dr Tarun Weeramanthri, said some people were more susceptible to heat stress than others.

“People older than 65 or younger than two years, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, people with heart disease or high blood pressure or those on certain drugs such as medication for mental illness are generally most at risk of heat stress,” Dr Weeramanthri said.

“People who work outside or who are not used to the heat, such as travellers from overseas, may also be at a higher risk.

“Everyone should take extra care to remain hydrated and keep cool during the hot summer months, and be sure to take special care of young children, people living alone or without air conditioning and elderly friends, relatives or neighbours.”

Dr Weeramanthri said although the human body could cope well in temperatures less than 32 degrees Celsius, higher temperatures could sometimes make it hard for the body to cool itself.

“The body loses heat by sweating, but when temperatures are consistently high, sweating isn’t enough to cool down adequately,” he said.

“Minimum temperatures consistently greater than 22 degrees can also strain the body’s ability to cool down, as can high humidity.

“The effects of heat-stress can be mild and include muscle cramps, weakness and headache.

“However if you experience more severe symptoms, such as: a high body temperature; nausea; dry, red, hot skin; and a rapid heart rate, it is important to seek urgent medical advice.”

People should take the following precautions to help prevent heat-related illness:

• Check on older, sick and frail people who may need help coping with the heat
• Never leave anyone in a closed car
• Drink plenty of water and fluids (Note: If your doctor normally limits your fluids or you are on fluid tablets, you may need to check how much to drink while the weather is hot)
• Limit or avoid alcohol
• Stay indoors, if possible in air-conditioning
• Take a cool shower or bath
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing
• Reduce physical activity
• Avoid outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day
• Don’t rely on fans unless there is adequate ventilation
• Know the signs of heat stress (muscle cramps, pallor, dizziness, headache, nausea, increased heart rate, fainting, excessive sweating or no sweating with high temperature and hot, dry skin) and seek medical attention if necessary.

(Source: Government of Western Australia Department of Health)