GRIFFITH residents sweltered through the city’s hottest October day on record on Saturday.
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The mercury hit 39°C, breaking the previous record of 38.5°C on October 21 in 2013.
There is more warm weather to come later this week, with a maximum of 35°C forecast on Saturday and a maximum of 36°C predicted on Sunday.
Temperatures in the high 20s are predicted for the first three days of the week, with a maximum of 31°C on Thursday and 35°C on Friday.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District has urged people to take the risk of heat related illness seriously.
Public Health Unit acting director Alison Nikitas said while heat related illness may affect everyone, certain groups were particularly vulnerable.
“Australians are accustomed to hot weather and generally consider themselves resilient to such conditions,” Ms Nikitas said.
“However, every year hot weather and heat waves cause illness, hospitalisations and sometimes even deaths.”
During a heat wave it is important to stay in regular contact with elderly friends, neighbours and relatives, she said.
“Heat puts a lot of strain on the body and can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke,” Ms Nikitas said.
“It can also make underlying health conditions worse.
“However, being prepared and taking some simple precautions can reduce the risk of heat related illnesses.”
These simple precautions will help minimise the risk of heat related illness:
- Drink plenty of water and remember to carry some with you when youfre out and about
- Avoid alcoholic, hot and sugary drinks.
- Plan your day around the heat. Stay indoors between 11am and 5pm and minimise physical activity.
- Keep the sun out of your house by shading windows with an awning, shade cloth or plants. Shut curtains.
- Keep windows closed during the day. Open them when it cools down at night or early in the morning.
- If you have an airconditioner, make sure it's working.
- If you donft have an airconditioner, try to spend some time in an air-conditioned place like a shopping centre, library or cinema.
- Wear light, loose fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton.
- If outdoors, ensure you wear a hat and sunscreen.
Signs of heat related illness include confusion, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, weakness, headaches and loss of sweating. People showing any of these signs should seek urgent medical attention.
