Be Prepare For Extreme Heat Over The Summer Season

Extreme heat events are becoming an increasingly common occurrence throughout Western Australia. Associated with these events is the projected increase in the number of heat related deaths and consequential impacts on community, infrastructure and services.

Watch the 60 second video below for the new heatwave warning system 2022

https://youtu.be/A4fVYKkNICo

During extreme heat it is easy to become dehydrated or for your body to overheat. If this happens, you may develop heat cramps, heat exhaustion or even heatstroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency which can result in permanent damage to your vital organs, or even death, if not treated immediately. Extreme heat can also make existing medical conditions worse.

Could you or someone you know be at risk? Extreme heat can affect anybody however the people most at risk are:

aged over 65 years, especially those living alone

have a medical condition such as diabetes, kidney disease or mental illness

are taking medications that may affect the way the body reacts to heat such as: – allergy medicines (antihistamines) – blood pressure and heart medicines (beta-blockers) – seizure medicines (anticonvulsants) – water pills (diuretics) – antidepressants or antipsychotics

have problematic alcohol or drug use

have a disability

have trouble moving around such as those who are bed bound or in wheelchairs • pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers

babies and young children

are overweight or obese

work or exercise outdoors

have recently arrived from cooler climates.

Hot cars kill!

Never leave kids, adults or pets in hot cars. The temperature inside parked cars can double within minutes.

Prepare for a heatwave

https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/F_I/Heatwave-be-prepared-for-extreme-heat/Prepare-for-a-heatwave

During a Heatwave