The ACT Ambulance Service strongly advises the community to take the following sensible pre-cautions today with a forecast top temperature of 39 degrees:
- Wear sensible clothing including a hat and sunscreen;
- Staying hydrated is essential to staying safe and healthy;
- Don't exercise in the heat of the day;
- Alcohol and excessive caffeine are to be kept to a minimum during prolonged heat events as these can have a dehydrating effect;
- Water is the best liquid to ensure that hydration levels are kept at a safe level;
- Anyone showing signs of heat stress, Emergency Triple Zero (000) should be called for an ambulance;
- Signs can include nausea, dizziness, fainting, weakness, headaches, vomiting and the loss of sweating;
- The most vulnerable to heat stress is young children and the elderly; and
- Do not leave children or pets unattended in hot cars.