Ambulance Paramedics are urging everyone to take care this summer on days with high temperatures and unusually high levels of smoke in the air.
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Young’s NSW Ambulance Inspector Stephen Pollard states that it is particularly important for the elderly, the very young and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, to take extra care. The following tips for staying safe in the heat were released by Mr Pollard this week:
- Try to stay in the shade and out of the sun as much as possible.
- Drink plenty of water, and if outdoors for a long period of time, make sure you take a water bottle with you.
- “Slip, slop, slap and wrap”. Wear protective clothing.
- Never leave children locked or alone in the car, not even for a short time. Heat generated in a closed car can quickly become fatal.
- Feed breastfed infants more frequently to help keep their fluid.
- Avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous physical activity, especially in the middle of the day.
“It is also important to be aware of possible symptoms of heat exhaustion,” Inspector Pollard said.
“These include nausea, vomiting, faintness, dizziness, loss of appetite, weakness and headaches.
“If any of these symptoms occur you should lay the person down and apply cool, wet towels around the neck and under the arms, and have them drink cool fluids,” he said.
If the person does not respond to treatment or symptoms worsen, it is important to call 000, he added.
Other tips for staying safe if conditions are smoky include:
- People with respiratory conditions are advised to stay indoors if it is smokey outside.
- If you are required to leave the house, take your prescribed medication with you.
- Asthmatics need to be aware of the early warning signs.
- Have your doctor review your “Asthma Action Plan”.
To assist with someone suffering an asthma attack, position them sitting upwards and loosen any tight clothing around the neck and chest.
