It is set to be a hot WA summer, so it’s important to know how to prepare to cope with high-temperature days.
Are you at risk?
People over 75, along with babies and young children are some of the most vulnerable when the hot weather hits, along with people who are obese, work outside or have long-term health conditions.
Here are quick tips to help everyone stay safe and healthy in the heat…
Stay hydrated.
We hear this a lot – but it’s for good reason! Drinking plenty of water is one of the most effective ways to stay healthy and avoid heat-related illness. Try to avoid dehydrating liquids such as alcohol, coffee and sugary drinks.
Be sun smart.
Stay in the shade, wear the appropriate level of sunscreen – and re-apply! – and wear protective clothing, especially if you are working outside. It might be tempting to take your shirt off to cool down, but avoid the temptation until you are in the shade.
At home.
Open up during the cooler evenings and early mornings, but close up as soon as the sun comes out to keep your house cool. Avoid using the oven and stove and close the curtains and blinds on the hotter side of the house.
Check on others.
If you have elderly neighbours or friends who are at a higher health risk, call and check in on them during hotter weather. If they don’t have air conditioning or are struggling, take them to the local pool, library or (shaded) beach to cool off in the hotter part of the day.
By taking these steps, we can all enjoy a safer, healthier and happier summer!