Keep cool as Queensland swelters in heatwave conditions

• Queenslanders are being urged to protect themselves and their loved ones from heat-related illness as heatwave grips most of Queensland
• Heat-related illnesses can affect everyone, with the elderly, pregnant and breastfeeding women, young children and people with pre-existing medical conditions particularly at risk
• Keep cool by drinking plenty of water, staying out of the heat of the day, seek air-conditioned places and applying cool towels  

As Queenslanders embrace the holiday season, they are being urged to take extra care to protect themselves from heat-related illness as the state swelters through heatwave conditions.

Heatwave conditions are building across most of the state. North-western Queensland is experiencing severe to extreme heatwave conditions, while broad parts of western, northern and central Queensland are also experiencing severe heatwave conditions.

Maximum temperatures west of Longreach are expected to reach the low-to-mid 40s today and over the next few days.

Severe heatwave conditions are also being experienced today, and can be expected tomorrow, for most of Brisbane, Ipswich and Sunshine Coast.

Heatwaves are a very serious health hazard and care should be taken to stay safe, know the signs of heat-related illness, and what to do if they or a loved one becomes unwell.

Signs of heat stress include rising body temperature, dry mouth and eyes, headache, shortness of breath or vomiting.

Heat stroke, which is a more dangerous condition, can be identified through symptoms including heat rash, muscle cramps, dizziness, nausea, vomiting and seizures.

More information on heat related illness can be found at the Queensland Government's website.

To stay informed and monitor the heatwave situation in Queensland, visit the Bureau of Meteorology website.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman: 

"Queenslanders are very used to warm weather but often overlook the dangers associated with very high temperatures.

“This relentless heat not only affects physical health but can also disrupt sleep patterns and lead to increased irritability, impacting mental wellbeing.

"While certain groups – including the elderly, young children, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and those with pre-existing medical conditions – are especially vulnerable, heat-related illnesses can impact everybody.

“Protect yourself and your loved ones by keeping cool, drinking plenty of water, staying out of the intense heat of the day, seeking air-conditioning, reducing strenuous exercise, and checking on loved ones and vulnerable neighbours.

“Simple yet effective methods to stay safe include drinking cold water, applying cool towels, or using ice packs.”

Information on how to protect yourself from the heat:

To stay cool:

• Try to be indoors during the hottest part of the day.
• Use air conditioning.
• Avoid strenuous activities or exercise.
• If you have to go outside, be sun safe by wearing a hat, long sleeves and light clothing, seeking shade where possible and applying sunscreen every two hours.

Drink water regularly and stay hydrated:       

• Drink water (between 6-8 glasses each day).
• Avoid alcoholic, hot or sugary drinks including tea and coffee (they can make dehydration worse).
• If you go outside, carry a bottle of water with you.

Look out for each other:

• Keep in contact with elderly friends, neighbours and relatives during a heatwave in case you, or they, need help.
• Don’t leave children or pets in parked cars       

If you suspect heat-related illness:

• Call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
• Lay the person down in a cool spot.
• Remove as much clothing as possible.
• Give water to drink if they can swallow.
• If possible, get them into a cold shower or bath, or cover them with a wet sheet to cool them down.

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