With temperatures across Melbourne forecast to remain high throughout the month, residents in Dandenong are being reminded to look after themselves during heatwaves.
Staff at Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology have forecast that temperatures across the area are likely to reach around 30°C or higher for much of February and possibly even into March.
The Greater Dandenong council is reminding people to make sure they have plenty to drink, to rest and seek shade during hot weather. Residents are also asked to check on elderly relatives and neighbours to make sure they are coping.
Kidsafe Victoria, which aims to reduce accidents and injuries to children, is also reminding people not to leave children alone in cars in hot spells. Figures from Ambulance Victoria revealed that just over 1,000 children had to be rescued from cars between September 2012 and August 2013, with the majority of them aged under four-years-old.
Kidsafe has used poster printing create a campaign warning of the dangers of leaving children alone in vehicles - even for a few minutes. One poster explains that research shows it can be 20-30°C hotter inside a car than it is outside, while another tells people what to do if they see a child left in a vehicle.
More information about staying safe during a heatwave can be found on the Victorian Government health website.
