State member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad is reminding local residents to take care as the summer heat rises.
“As we move into the real heat of summer, it’s important to be aware of the hazards of extreme heat, especially as we are likely to be spending more time outdoors with family and friends in our beautiful region,” she said.
“Heat kills more Australians than any natural disaster, and we have already seen days when the temperature has reached 40°C in parts of northern Victoria.
“Heat can cause serious and potentially fatal health problems such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke; it can trigger heart attack or stroke or worsen existing medical conditions.”
Extreme heat can affect anybody. Those most at risk include people aged over 65, babies and young children, pregnant women, people with existing health problems and those who are socially isolated.
Ms Broad said residents should keep cool, stay hydrated, plan ahead and check in with friends, as well as continue to check the weather forecast.
“In the event of a medical emergency such as heatstroke, call 000,” she said.
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