The communities of Western and Central Western NSW are urged to monitor weather reports and health advice as NSW is expected to experience its first heatwave of the summer, NSW Police say.
The Bureau of Meteorology warns temperatures are generally expected to increase over the weekend and continue into next week.
As the weather heats up, motorists are also reminded it’s not only an offence for children or pets to be left unattended in a vehicle, it can be deadly.
Everyone needs to take care in hot weather, but some people are at higher risk of heat illness, especially if they are older, live alone or are socially-isolated. Remember to;
- Stay well-hydrated
- Avoid alcohol and hot or sugary drinks
- Limit your physical activity
- Try to stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton
- Regularly check your local forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology on your radio, TV, internet or App
- Get advice from your doctor about whether your medication and/or your medical conditions may affect what you should do if it gets extremely hot
- Make sure you know who you are going to call (who may need help, and who could provide help to you if needed); make a list of telephone numbers and make sure they are current.
If you can, it's a good idea to spend some time in an air-conditioned building. For more information please refer to the Beat the Heat website: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat/pages/default.aspx
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 animals should be left in confined, unventilated areas.
Members of the public should also regularly visit the Rural Fire Service website at www.rfs.nsw.gov.au for updated bush fire warnings and information.
For updated weather forecasts and warnings visit www.bom.gov.au
