Heatwaves across Australia - are you playing it smart?

Temperatures across Queensland and much of the country have been soaring, breaking records for hottest January days, and longest period of days in a row above 40°C in various locations across the state. Sunshine Coast swelters with day after day of 30°C or above, making anywhere with water – beaches, lakes, rivers and back yard pools – the most attractive place to spend time during the school holidays.

It’s good to see so many Sunshine Coast residents (including participants at Allens Training Sunshine Coast first and CPR courses), carrying water bottles with them wherever they are, whether inside or outside. Nobody wants to end up being treated for heat exhaustion or heat stroke, two related health conditions that can have serious consequences if not treated early and effectively.

Prevention is the key in managing the summer heat on the Sunshine Coast where the humidity is a factor that can make staying cool more difficult. Ensure you remain well hydrated by drinking plenty of water (avoid excessive tea, coffee and alcohol, which can increase dehydration). Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day. Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made with ‘breathable’ fabrics that allow sweat to evaporate. Wear a large hat to shade your face and back of your neck. Seek out shady places. Take care of those who may be most at risk: the elderly; children under two; people with kidney, circulation or heart problems; insulin dependent diabetes sufferers.

Allens Training Sunshine Coast first aid courses can equip you with tools for managing heat related conditions. At an Allens Training course you will learn to recognise the signs and symptoms associated with heat related conditions, and how to treat someone suffering from heat induced illness.

Signs and symptoms of serious dehydration can include headaches and lethargy, mood changes and slow responses, dry nasal passages, dry or cracked lips, dark-coloured urine, weakness and tiredness, confusion and hallucinations, cold skin, a blue tinge to the skin as the circulation slows. First aid treatment includes giving fluids and monitoring the person’s condition. Remember that older people and children under two may be at greater risk of dehydration.

Heat exhaustion is likely when body temperature rises above 37°C but not above 40°C. Signs of heat exhaustion are elevated temperature, heavy sweating and dilated pupils. Symptoms include extreme fatigue, feeling faint or dizzy, headache, nausea or vomiting, and possible collapse.

To manage the condition of heat exhaustion, lie casualty down, remove excess clothing and loosen the remainder, sponge the skin with a moist cloth or washer, fan the casualty to cool by evaporation, and if the person is conscious, give them cool water to drink. If not correctly managed, the condition may progress to heat stroke, which is a more serious heat-related condition.

Heat stroke occurs when the body temperature rises above 40°C. Signs of heat stroke are dry skin (person has stopped sweating), rapid/shallow breathing, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, and the person may appear confused, agitated and disoriented, and lapse into unconsciousness.

Heat stroke is considered a medical emergency, so if you suspect a person has heat stroke, immediately call emergency services for an ambulance. While you are waiting for the ambulance, place the casualty in a cool place (if available), remove excess clothing, and sponge the skin with a moist cloth or washer, or spray with a fine spray of cool water, while fanning continuously. Apply cold packs or wrapped ice packs to neck, groin and armpits.

Allens Training runs CPR and first aid courses on the Sunshine Coast at several locations – Birtinya, Maroochydore, Nambour, and Noosa.

To book your Allens Training Sunshine Coast first aid and CPR training course, visit our website where you can view our calendar of scheduled classes and book online. Alternatively, for more information and phone bookings, and to enquire about group training, please phone 07 5438 8888