Today, Tuesday 13 February has been declared a day of Total Fire Ban for the Mallee and Riverland forecast districts.
Temperatures are expected to reach low 40s with a risk of a thunderstorm in the evening.
An Extreme Fire Danger Rating is forecast for the Mallee and Riverland which means no fires can be lit or be allowed to remain alight in the open air.
Extreme heat can affect anybody, so remember to stay safe, plan ahead, keep hydrated, and check in with others.
See more tips to survive the heat at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/extreme-heat
Stay cool on hot days.
- Use air conditioning or a fan.
- Wear light and loose-fitting clothing.
- Keep skin wet, using a spray bottle or damp sponge.
- Take cool showers or foot baths in cool tap water.
- Wrap ice cubes in a damp towel and drape around your neck.
- Block heat from entering your home with blinds or curtains. Open windows and doors if you think it is hotter indoors than outdoors.
- Consider spending some time in a cool place such as an air-conditioned shopping centre or public library.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity.
Drink fluids.
During extreme heat, keep drinking fluids before you feel thirsty, especially if outdoors and performing physical activity.
- Whenever you leave home, always take a water bottle with you.
- Watch for signs of dehydration like feeling thirsty, lightheaded, having a dry mouth, tiredness, having dark-coloured, strong-smelling urine or passing less urine than usual.
- If your doctor normally limits your fluids, check how much you should drink during hot weather.
Check in with others.
A quick call can make a big difference. Let family, friends and neighbours know you are OK or check in with those at increased risk or who may need your support during days of extreme heat.
People more at-risk include:
- Those over the age of 65
- Young children and babies
- Pregnant women
- People with acute or chronic health problems
- People who are socially isolated.
Plan ahead.
When planning outdoor activities:
- Cancel or reschedule activities for a cooler time of the day.
- Monitor the weather forecast and warnings via TV or Radio.
- Monitor www.bom.gov.au online or subscribe using the Bureau’s app.
- Subscribe online to receive the Department of Health’s Heat Health Warnings at www.health.vic.gov.au/environmental-health/heat-health-warning
