Victorians have been put on alert to plan for the heat, with soaring temperatures predicted for this weekend and into next week.

The Health Minister, David Davis said Melbourne’s temperature was predicted to hit 35 and 41 at the weekend, with scorchers also predicted for most regions of the State.

“Victoria’s Heat Health Alert System was developed to allow the health and aged care sector, emergency services and local government authorities to prepare for extreme temperatures,” Mr Davis said.

“We know that there is a statistically significant increase in heat-related health service activity in Melbourne, above expected normal levels, within the first 24 hours of an extreme heat event.

“An analysis of the Victorian Heat Health Information Surveillance System also shows that the increase in activity continues to grow if an extreme heat event continues beyond the first 24 hours on subsequent days, following the first day of a heatwave.

“It is important for all people to prepare for hot weather so that they know how to stay healthy in the heat.”

In hot weather members of the community should take care of themselves and check on older, sick and frail relatives, friends and neighbours who may need help coping with the heat.

“Heat-related illness can affect anybody and a range of actions should be taken to minimise the potential harm extreme heat can cause,” Mr Davis said.

People should use the following practical advice to help prevent heat-related illnesses:

• Check on elderly family, friends and neighbours. Knock on their door to see if they are ok.
• Drink plenty of water, even if you do not feel thirsty (if your doctor normally limits your fluids, check how much to drink during hot weather.
• Keep cool by using wet towels on your arms or neck, putting your feet in cool water and taking cool (not cold) showers.
• Spend as much time as possible in cool or air-conditioned buildings (for example, shopping centres, libraries, cinemas or community centres.
• Block out the sun during the day by closing curtains and blinds. Open windows when there is a cool breeze.
• Do not leave children, the elderly or animals in parked vehicles.
• Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day. If you must go out, stay in the shade and take plenty of water with you. Wear a hat and light-colored, loose- fitting clothing. Remember to Slip,Slop,Slap!
• Eat smaller meals more often and eat cold meals such as salads. Make sure food that needs refrigeration is properly stored.
• Avoid strenuous activity like sport, home improvements and gardening.
• Listen and watch out for news reports that provide more information during a heatwave.

Victoria’s Chief Health Officer, Dr Rosemary Lester said the body normally sweats to cool down but sometimes sweating isn’t enough and rising body temperature can lead to heat stress.

“The effects of heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions such as a rash or cramps to very serious conditions such as heat stroke – which can kill,” Dr Lester said.

“Importantly, heat may worsen the condition of someone who already has a medical condition such as heart disease. Those most at risk are people over 65 years, particularly those living alone, people who are unwell, especially with heart or kidney disease and people who have a disability or mental illness.

“Elderly people are more prone to heat stress than younger people because their body may not adjust well to sudden temperature change.”