AS MOST people know a Wimmera summer is very hot.
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The pursuit to stay cool comes with added risks that people need to keep in mind.
Stay safe on scorching days
AMBULANCE Victoria’s senior team manager Paul Burton said extreme heat kills more Australians than any other natural disaster.
As the summer weather starts to set in, Mr Burton shared six tips to stay safe on those hot, unbearable days.
- Drink plenty of water: Always take a bottle wherever you go.
- Hot cars kill: Never leave children, adults or pets in the car. The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes.
- Keep cool: Seek out air-conditioned buildings, keep blinds closed, use a fan, take cool showers and dress in light loose clothing.
- Plan ahead: Schedule activities in the coolest part of the day and wear a hat and sunscreen.
- Check on others: neighbours living alone, the elderly, the young and pets.
Stay alert to fire risks
SUMMER months are spent winding down and enjoy a fun, relaxing summer break.
Country Fire Authority’s District 17 operations manager Craig Brittain said summer was not a time to be complacent and forget about the risks.
“It’s a time to be with your family and friends, but it is also a time to be cautious of high risk areas,” he said.
“Take time to check your barbecues and make sure everything is working and safe. Be sure to comply with all restrictions in place.”
Backyard pool defence
SWIMMING pools and summer go hand-in-hand.
Kidsafe Victoria have called on pool owners to improve their ‘backyard pool defence’ in a bid to reduce the number of toddler drowning deaths this summer.
The Royal Life Saving Society of Australia's National Drowning Report showed that in the last financial period 18 children aged zero and four years old drowned. The majority of these incidents (67%) occurred in swimming pools.
Kidsafe Victoria’s summer pool safety tips:
- Children need to be actively supervised by an adult in and around water at all times.
- Appoint designated supervisors at BBQ's and pool parties whose role it is to supervise the kids in and around the pool.
- Ensure that your pool barrier is secure and in proper working order.
- Never prop the pool gate open.
- Learn CPR and update your skills regularly.
- Be mindful of other potential outdoor water hazards including eskys with melted ices, inflatable pools and ponds.
Common non-compliance issues with pool barriers:
- Gates and doors that do not self-latch or self-close
- Climbable objects near the barrier
- Excess space under the barrier
- Misuse such as propping the pool gate open
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