Redlanders have been urged to take care, with a severe heatwave forecast to hit the region over the next few days.
Temperatures are predicted to well exceed February averages and continue into Monday, peaking on Sunday with a forecast maximum of 39C.
Redland City Mayor and Local Disaster Management Group Chair Karen Williams said the heatwave would be particularly uncomfortable due to high temperatures through the nights and high levels of humidity.
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“Prolonged hot weather can be fatal, so it is important you know how to stay safe during heatwaves such as that forecast for the weekend,’’ Cr Williams said.
“This is particularly so for the elderly and young children, so please keep an eye on family, friends and vulnerable neighbours, especially those who live alone, as well as your pets. And, please, never leave children or pets in cars in this heat.’’
The Department of Health recommends:
- Keep hydrated by drinking water regularly during the day. This generally means drinking two to three litres of water a day, depending on heat, humidity and your physical activity.
- If your doctor normally restricts your fluid intake, check how much to drink during hot weather. Drinking too much water can also be dangerous, so monitor the colour of your urine. It is recommended that your water consumption should ensure that your urine is light yellow.
- Avoid drinking drinks with high levels of sugar, caffeine and alcohol and very cold drinks.
- Eat smaller cool meals, such as salads. Do not take additional salt tablets unless prescribed by a doctor.
- Keep yourself cool. Use wet towels or scarves, put your feet in cool water or take cool (not cold) showers. Stay indoors in cool or air-conditioned facilities – either at home or at local shopping centres, libraries and cinemas.
- Close curtains and blinds, and open windows (if there is a cool breeze blowing) to reduce heat entering your home.
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities. If you can’t avoid outdoor activities don’t go out in the hottest part of the day, stay in the shade, drink plenty of water and wear a hat and light coloured, loose fitting clothing. Ensure infants and children do too.
- Do not leave children, adults or animals in parked vehicles, even for a short period of time.
- Keep in touch with sick or frail friends, neighbours and relatives to ensure that they are coping with the heat wave conditions.
- Watch or listen to news reports for information about the heat event or heat wave.
For more information or support during heat event or a heatwave:
- For life-threatening emergencies call 000.
- Call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) at any time.
- Contact your doctor, hospital or health clinic.
- Go to http://redlnd.cc/QHheatwave
