HEATWAVE

Heatwave is perhaps the most under-rated natural hazard. Every summer people suffer from heat stress when the body absorbs more heat that it can dispel. Acting quickly can help reduce the risks of fully  developed heatstroke.

• Maintain hydration by drinking plenty of water and fluids and avoiding alcohol and sugary/fizzy drinks that may increase dehydration
• Keep the body cool by utilising techniques such as damp towels, cool showers, wearing appropriate clothing and avoiding strenuous activity
• Block out the sun during the day by closing curtains and blinds and open up windows and doors where there is a cool breeze
• Spend as much time as possible in cool or  air conditioned buildings (e.g. shopping centres, galleries and museums)
• If you must go outside stay in the shade and take plenty of water.
• Do not leave children and pets in parked vehicles
• If you suffer a chronic illness or feel ill, see your doctor
• Keep animals in the shade with plenty of water

Victorian councils are responsible for addressing risks associated with heatwaves at a community level and developing their own plan to minimise the risks involved. 

The City of Ballarat is committed to a range of activities that support people in the community who are at a greater risk of suffering heat-related illnesses. Such strategies include:

• Identifying the most susceptible aged care or home and community care (HACC) clients to contact during periods of extreme heat and providing additional training for HACC workers.
• Media campaigns to raise awareness of heatwaves and educate the community on how to stay safe on high risk days.

Victorian Heat Health Alert System

A heat health alert system has been developed to notify local governments and departmental program areas of impending heatwaves.

The department monitors the Bureau of Meteorology website for seven-day maximum and minimum temperatures.  When the 'heat health temperature threshold' is reached, a heat health alert will be issued to local governments.

A 'heat health temperature threshold' is when the temperature is likely to impact on the health of the community. For all local government areas in Victoria, except the Mildura area, the heat health threshold is a daily mean temperature of 30^oC.

Useful links:

• Victorian Government Health Information:  www.health.vic.gov.au/environment/heatwave
• Heatwaves – important information for summer brochure
• Bureau of Meteorology – www.bom.gov.au
• Heatwave brochures in languages other than English
• Better Health Channel - Heat stress and heat related illness