Heat wave warning

With the heat wave currently being experienced across several parts of the country, ER24 is urging people to be cautious.

It’s said Gauteng, Limpopo, North West and Mpumalanga are in for a heat wave where temperatures could reach up to 36 degrees C.

As far as Randfontein is concerned temperatures is not expected to drop below 33 degrees C the next seven days.

The forecast for Randfontein (according to the South African Weather Service) is:

For a more detailed forecast click here.

Heat exhaustion could lead to serious complications. Severe heat exhaustion could lead to heat stroke for example and this could be life threatening,” ER24 spokesperson Chitra Bodasing said.

ER24 offers the following tips:

• Stay well hydrated by drinking a lot of water.

• Keep a close eye on babies, the elderly and children. Ensure they stay well hydrated as well.

• Remember to ensure pets have a cool place to relax and cool clean water to drink as well.

• Try to stay out of direct sunlight.

• Wear the appropriate clothing and ensure you use sunscreen.

• Limit participation in outdoor activities. If you plan on participating in outdoor activities, ensure you rest and keep hydrated.

• If you are going to spend time in a pool, ensure your safety and that of children around you. Ensure that they are supervised while around and in the pool.

• Do not leave children and pets in a vehicle even with a window open.

Severe heat stroke or exhaustion signs or symptoms include the following:

• Severe headache

• Weakness or disorientation

• Nausea or vomiting

• Muscle cramps

• Severe thirst

Monitor people who have these symptoms. Persisting symptoms should be taken seriously and medical assistance should be sought,” Bodasing added.

Contact ER24 on 084 124 for any medical emergency.

Want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us an SMS/ WhatsApp message with your name and cellphone number to 079 413 8726.

Familiarise yourself with our WhatsApp service disclaimer.

Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at randfonteinherald@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 693 3671.

For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Roodepoort Record, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine

Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!