As Victorians brace for back-to-back days of extreme heat, Ambulance Victoria has urged the public to take precautions to avoid serious heat-related illnesses and ease pressure on emergency services.
Paramedics warned that soaring temperatures can worsen chronic medical conditions and significantly increase the risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke, a medical emergency that occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature, is entirely preventable but can be fatal in up to 80 per cent of cases.
Ambulance Victoria State Health Commander Ross Salathiel said while older people, young children and those with existing medical conditions are most vulnerable, heat-related illness can affect anyone.
He said symptoms such as confusion, seizures, collapse, loss of consciousness, or excessive sweating—or the absence of sweating—require immediate medical attention and a call to Triple Zero (000).
To reduce the risk, Victorians are being encouraged to drink water regularly, stay in cool environments such as air-conditioned homes or shopping centres, use sun protection including hats and sunscreen, and avoid outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day.
Ambulance Victoria is also urging people to stay informed during heat events by downloading the VicEmergency app.
With demand for emergency services typically rising during extreme weather, Mr Salathiel said it was important for the community to understand their healthcare options and reserve ambulances for life-threatening situations.
For non-life-threatening conditions that still require medical care, Victorians are encouraged to use alternative services such as the Victorian Virtual Emergency Department, which offers free online video consultations, or visit a local Urgent Care Clinic.
Other options include Nurse-on-Call on 1300 60 60 24, local general practitioners and pharmacists.
Health authorities have also reminded people to take extra care around water, particularly when supervising children, and to look out for friends, family and neighbours during periods of extreme heat.
More information on staying safe in hot weather is available through the Better Health Channel and the Ambulance Victoria website.
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