By Ewen McRae
As temperatures soared across the state last week, Brimbank council urged residents to look after the most vulnerable in their community, especially children, the elderly and animals.
With the mercury hovering in the high 30s for large parts of last week, mayor Lucinda Congreve said it was important for residents to remain vigilant and stay hydrated.
“We’ve already experienced some extreme temperatures this summer, and the long hot summer is expected to continue,” Cr Congreve said.
“Sadly that means more deaths from extreme heat. It’s a sobering fact, but extreme heat kills more people in Australia than any natural disaster.
“There are simple things people can do to prevent their children from experiencing dehydration, heat stress and worse.
“Make sure they are drinking water rather than sport drinks or fruit juices and if you’re worried they might be dehydrated, ask them when they last went to the toilet. If it’s been a few hours then they’re not drinking enough. If it’s been over six hours, then they are likely to be dehydrated.
“Also, never leave kids, pets or adults in a parked car. The temperature inside a car can double within minutes and can lead to heat exhaustion and death.”
