Victoria is set for days of very hot weather, and ambulance paramedics are urging people to take care.
High temperatures can make existing health problems worse and can cause serious heat-related illnesses.
Ross Salathiel from Ambulance Victoria said heatstroke is particularly dangerous. “It can be deadly, but it is also preventable,” he said. “While the elderly, young children, and people who are unwell are most at risk, hot weather can be dangerous for anyone.”
Heatstroke happens when the body gets too hot and cannot cool down. It is a medical emergency.
Warning signs to watch for include:
- Confusion or not making sense
- Fitting or seizures
- Heavy sweating or suddenly stopping sweating
- Collapsing or passing out
If you see someone with these signs, call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
How to stay safe in the heat:
- Drink water regularly.
- Stay in a cool place, like a shopping centre or at home with air conditioning or fans.
- Wear a hat and sunscreen.
- Avoid going outside in the middle of the day when it is hottest.
Other options if you need medical help:
For problems that are not life-threatening, people are asked to use other services so ambulances are free for emergencies.
- Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) for a free video call with a doctor.
- Visit an Urgent Care Clinic.
- Call Nurse-On-Call at 1300 60 60 24 for 24-hour advice.
- See your local GP or pharmacist.
Stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency app. For more tips, visit the Better Health Victoria or Ambulance Victoria websites.
Support independent community journalism. Support The Indian Sun.
Follow The Indian Sun on X | Instagram | Facebook
Donate To The Indian Sun
Dear Reader,The Indian Sun is an independent organisation committed to community journalism. We have, through the years, been able to reach a wide audience especially with the growth of social media, where we also have a strong presence. With platforms such as YouTube videos, we have been able to engage in different forms of storytelling. However, the past few years, like many media organisations around the world, it has not been an easy path. We have a greater challenge. We believe community journalism is very important for a multicultural country like Australia. We’re not able to do everything, but we aim for some of the most interesting stories and journalism of quality. We call upon readers like you to support us and make any contribution. Do make a DONATION NOW so we can continue with the volume and quality journalism that we are able to practice.
Thank you for your support.
Best wishes,
Team The Indian Sun
