Keep cool in the heat wave

SNSWLHD Public Health Unit Director Tracey Oakman said keeping cool was important due the serious impacts extreme heat conditions can have on people's health.

"It's essential for your body temperature to stay in the range of 36.1 - 37.8 degrees Celsius. If it rises above 37.8 degrees, you may develop a heat-related illness. Our bodies have to work very hard and produce a lot of sweat to keep cool when the weather is very hot," Ms Oakman said.

Symptoms of heat-related illnesses can vary depending on the severity, but could include: restlessness irritability light-headedness feeling confused, weak or faint.

Heat stress is preventable with simple precautions. To stay healthy in the heat, Ms Oakman reminded people to people to: Drink plenty of water - even if you don't feel thirsty; and avoid sugary and alcoholic drinks; Keep cool - keep your body and your house cool by closing any windows and curtains/blinds; Take care of others - check in on elderly friends, neighbours and relatives daily and have a plan - know who to call if you need help.

People with severe signs of heat-related illness should seek urgent medical attention via their GP or the emergency department at their nearest hospital.

"We encourage you to look out for family, neighbours and other community members who may be more vulnerable to heat stress, or more prone to heat-related illnesses," Ms Oakman said.

"Babies and children, older adults, people who are sick or unwell, and those with a chronic illness may all be more susceptible to heat stress.

"It's a good idea to always have drinking water on hand and to drink plenty of it; to stay indoors or in the shade whenever possible, and to keep your body cool by having air circulating around you," she added.

There are a range of community 'cool places' where residents can seek refuge from the heat, including public libraries, local pools and other indoor spaces.