The West Rand District Municipality’s Fire and Rescue Services has issued a statement advising residents to take the heatwave seriously.
“Temperatures are forecasted to rise significantly in the coming days potentially posing health risks, especially to vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, young children and those with pre-existing medical conditions. We urge all residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the extreme heat,” the statement read.
• Read the initial article here: Heatwave to start tomorrow, continuing into Monday
They also provided some tips to stay safe during a heatwave:
Stay hydrated
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as they can dehydrate you
Stay indoors during peak heat
• Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 11:00 and 15:00
• If you must be outdoors, seek shade whenever possible and wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing
Keep your home cool
• Close curtains or blinds to block out the sun
• Use fans or air conditioners if available
• Take cool showers or baths to lower body temperature
Protect vulnerable individuals
• Check on elderly family members, neighbours, and those with health issues
• Ensure that children and pets are never left in vehicles, even for a short period
Recognise signs of heat-related illness
• Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, excessive sweating, headache, nausea and muscle cramps
• Heatstroke, a life-threatening condition, can result in confusion, rapid heartbeat and unconsciousness. If you or someone experiences these symptoms, seek medical help
immediately
Stay informed
• Keep an eye on local weather reports and heat alerts
• Follow official channels for updates on the heatwave and any emergency measures
