The Bureau of Meteorology is predicting heatwave temperatures for the South Coast of NSW over the coming days.
The South Coast is expected to experience above average maximum temperatures, predicted to reach the low to mid-thirties.
For updated weather forecasts and warnings visit: www.bom.gov.au.
Sunday is expected to be a busy day throughout the Sydney Metropolitan area with many people preparing for the Sydney Marathon. We are asking the public to adhere to heat messages, keep their cool, and look out for each other.
The following message details important whole-of-government information for the people of NSW.
Rural Fire Service:
Stay up to date on fires in your area. People are urged to download the ‘Fires Near Me’ app: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/fires-near-me
• Under these conditions, some fires may start and spread so quickly there is little time for a warning, so do not wait and see.
• There are simply not enough fire trucks for every house. If you call for help, you may not get it.
• Do not expect a fire truck. Do not expect a knock on the door. Do not expect a phone call.
• Start taking action now to reduce your risk.
• Avoid bushfire-prone areas. If your home is in a bush fire prone area, the safest option is to not be there.
• Do not travel through bushland areas.
• Leaving is the safest option for your survival. If you plan to leave, leave early.
• If you are threatened by fire, you need to take action to protect yourself. Do not be caught in the open.
Keep up-to-date with major fire updates: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/fire-information/major-fire-updates
For more information about the fires, contact the Bush Fire Information Line – 1800 679 737
NSW Health
Everyone needs to take care in hot weather, but some people are more susceptible to the health effects of heatwaves include: the elderly, infants and young children, people who have to work in hot conditions, people on certain medications, people who are unwell or have chronic illness and people who live alone or are socially isolated.
Signs of heat-related illness include confusion, dizziness, fainting, nausea, vomiting, weakness, headaches heavy or loss of sweating, muscle cramps, dry swollen tongue, rapid pulse and rapid shallow breathing.
• Staying well hydrated
• Avoiding alcohol and hot or sugary drinks
• Limiting your physical activity, and,
• Trying to stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day.
If you can, it’s a good idea to spend some time in an air-conditioned building.
People showing any of these signs should seek urgent medical attention through their GP or local emergency department.
For more information please refer to the Beat the Heat website: www.health.nsw.gov.au/environment/beattheheat/Pages/default.aspx
People are also being encouraged to take extra precautions to protect themselves against the bushfire smoke. NSW Health is particularly reminding the elderly and parents and carers of young children to stay indoors, shut windows and where possible postpone outdoor activities.
People with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and make sure they are carrying their reliever medication.
NSW Ambulance:
Be aware of potential hazards such as embers, falling debris, damage to surroundings and reduced visibility which can cause injury.
Paramedics are urging people in fire affected areas to wear any form of eyewear and loose clothing to cover your skin to assist in reducing any incidental injury.
NSW Ambulance recommends if anyone sustains any form of burn they should cool the affected area immediately with water – ideally running water – for a minimum of 20 minutes (for eyes ensure you flush the eye) and seek medical attention.
It is important that people really take care of themselves. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, make sure you have all your medications with you and readily available at all times.
People with any respiratory issues, or who are particularly vulnerable, can be the first to feel the effects of smoke which may aggravate their existing condition. Even healthy adults and children can be impacted by the effects of heavy smoke which can result in lung irritation.
These conditions can have a serious impact on your health and it is important to remember that our bodies have to work extra hard to cope or cool down. Ensure you stay hydrated and pay particular attention to any symptoms (dizziness, headaches, racing pulse or nausea) of heat related illness.
NSW Ambulance is always here to help – never be afraid to call Triple Zero (000).
Fire and Rescue NSW
If you see an unattended fire, please call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Prepare your home for dangerous fire weather, clean out your gutters and remove piles of rubbish, weeds and leaf matter.
If you have a pool, tank or dam, put a Static Water Supply (SWS) sign on your property entrance so that our firefighters and the NSW Rural Fire Service (RFS) can easily identify water supplies.
If you are in a bushfire-affected area, please enact your Bush Fire Survival Plan.
NSW Police Force
With high temperatures expected in the city and hotter out west; we are asking commuters to keep their cool. Traffic delays and the heat generally has the potential to frustrate drivers with slower conditions on the road; so please be patient.
We know many people will want to head to the beach, a local swimming hole or swim in your backyard pool. Please be careful. Keep a watchful eye over children especially when they are near the water – all children need to be supervised.
Anyone who sees suspicious or illegal behaviour should to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
The best advice is if you don’t need to be out – stay at home.
Above all, look after yourself and those around you. If you need assistance call Triple Zero (000).
Anyone with information about criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
