Take Care During this Long Hot Weekend

Published on 22 January 2021

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West Wimmera Shire Council is encouraging residents to be prepared for the forecasted hot weather this weekend. Temperatures are predicted to be in the high 30s and low 40s.  

Residents and visitors to the shire should prepare for the hot weather and potential of an emergency as follows: 

  • Keep you and your family well hydrated by taking regular sips of water and check in on your neighbours, particularly the elderly and more vulnerable members of the community to make sure they are also drinking adequate and regular water. More information here: www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/heat 

  • Be sunsmart. If you are in the sun please wear a hat and UV resistant clothing and use a good quality SPF50 sunscreen. Further information available at www.sunsmart.com.au  

  • Visit www.emergency.vic.gov.au to stay informed in case of emergencies while travelling within the shire and throughout Victoria. 

  • If you have a smartphone, download the Vic Emergency app from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android) to keep informed of potential emergencies in the region. Also check you have the latest version and it is actively sending you updates for the region in which you are travelling. 

  • Visit the CFA Victoria website to ensure you are aware of what you can and cannot do during the Fire Danger Period and also like and follow the CFAVic Facebook page www.facebook.com/cfavic/ to stay informed of any fire conditions such as Total Fire Ban or other fire threats. 

  • Stay tuned to the radio www.abc.net.au/radio/wimmera for local updates regarding weather conditions and emergencies. 

  • Check all domestic and farm animals regularly to ensure they have sufficient water and contact Wildlife Victoria on (03) 8400 7300 if you see a distressed native animal. 

  • Do not leave children or pets in vehicles. Please call 000 to report any sightings of children or pets in hot cars. 

  • Drowning is a very big concern this summer since many swimming lessons were cancelled during Coronavirus lockdown. Be very careful around water and always keep your children within arms’ reach. 

Mayor, Cr. Bruce Meyer, says the community should play it safe and stay out of the heat where possible this weekend. 

“We know our community and visitors to the shire will be eager to cool off at our lakes and waterways this hot weekend”, he said. 

“Don’t forget the shire is also offering free entry to our pools which presents an excellent opportunity for family fun with a lifeguard nearby. 

“Please make your family’s health - both protection against the sun and keeping hydrated - your number one priority in this hot spell and check your neighbours, your pets and your farm animals are also well looked after. 

“Enjoy this weekend in our picturesque shire and if you are travelling, pay attention on the road.” 

 

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