Stay smart in soaring temperatures

Stay smart in soaring temperatures

New Zealanders are being reminded to follow a set of basic rules to deal with soaring temperatures across the country.

With temperatures hitting 30C plus over the past few days and a January record of 41C in Darfield in Canterbury, the Ministry of Health has issued a simple checklist to those facing the heat.

Ministry spokesperson Sally Gilbert says with the recent hot weather it*€™s important to remind everyone about simple precautions during summer.

*€œOlder people and young children are vulnerable to the effects of high temperatures. People caring for babies and older people need to be particularly aware in hot conditions. Children should never be left unattended in cars but in hot weather babies may suffer heat stress very quickly *€“ even within minutes.*€�

The Ministry recommends:

*• Drinking plenty of fluids especially water

*• Staying in the shade and avoiding strenuous physical activity, particularly during the hottest parts of the day

*• Remembering the SunSmart messages - slip, slop, slap and wrap

*• Reducing your intake of alcohol and caffeine products including tea, coffee and some carbonated drinks

*• Wearing light and loose-fitting clothing

*• Keeping curtains drawn in the heat of the day, and using fans and air conditioners as necessary and when available

Ms Gilbert also warned that mass gatherings for sporting and music events were potential health hazards in extreme heat, and extra care should be taken.

While following all of the common sense messages, people at these events should also be aware that alcohol increases dehydration. If drinking alcohol people should remember to stay within safe drinking limits and keep up their water intake.

For further advice on being Sunsmart see www.sunsmart.co.nz or www.cancersoc.org.nz

For further advice on summer food safety see http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz

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