As New South Wales prepares for a wave of hot weather over the long weekend, police are urging residents and visitors, particularly those located in Western NSW and Northern NSW regional areas, to keep informed on the conditions and look after their health.
The Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting temperatures in the mid to high 30s and increasing across the state from Saturday (5 October 2019) and peaking at 40 degrees on Sunday (6 October 2019). Some regional areas will remain hot and windy on Monday 7October 2019. Models are indicating that new early season maximum temperature records may be broken for several inland locations. Raised dust may be a concern for the State's west during Sunday as the winds become fresh and gusty. Visit www.bom.gov.au for updated weather forecasts and warnings.
With these conditions expected, police and emergency services are urging everyone in NSW to remember the four key messages to keep healthy in the heat:
1. Drink plenty of water (limit hot, sugary, or alcoholic beverages)
2. Keep cool (stay in the air conditioning, if possible)
3. Take care of others (visit or contact those at risk of heat-related illness)
4. Have a plan (know who to contact if you need assistance and seek medical advice if you feel unwell).
For more information on staying healthy in the heat, please visit NSW Health's 'Beat the Heat' website: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat.
Importantly, motorists are reminded it is never okay to leave children, the elderly, or pets unattended in a car – even with the air conditioning running. Not only is this dangerous, it can be deadly.
Livestock and pet owners are also being urged to ensure adequate clean water is always available and that shading is provided, where possible. Additionally, no animal should be left in confined, unventilated areas.
The RSPCA has a multitude of advice available online for reducing heat stress for animals: https://www.rspcansw.org.au/what-we-do/care-for-animals/pet-hazards/heat-stress.
While it is advised to avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day, large crowds are still expected at NSW beaches, rivers, lakes, and swimming pools. Marine Wind Warnings current at Macquarie coast between Seal Rocks and South West Rocks. Visit www.bom.gov.au for updated marine weather forecasts and warnings.
Anyone swimming in unfamiliar waterways is urged to take extra care. Every year thousands of people require rescuing from the surf and many needlessly drown. Special care should be taken when swimming in rivers and dams where submerged items may pose elevated and/or unexpected risks.
Members of the public should also be aware of the increased risk of bushfires on days with high temperature, especially when combined with windy conditions. The Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) is urging those heading away this long weekend to check fire conditions and have a plan in the event they are threatened by fire. Check the NSW RFS website or the Fires Near Me NSW app and listen to local radio for updates. A total fire ban is already in place for the Greater Hunter Area. Visit the Rural Fire Service website (www.rfs.nsw.gov.au) for bushfire preparedness advice and current conditions/warnings.
Finally, in the event of an emergency, please call 000 (Triple Zero).
