The summer heat has finally kicked in and Wellington Shire Council is urging residents to check on elderly family members, friends and neighbours, as our senior residents are at increased risk of suffering from heat related illnesses.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious and potentially fatal conditions occurring when the body’s temperature rises and the internal organs start to shut down.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion range from muscle cramps, dizziness and nausea to vomiting and fainting.

“Our elderly residents are among some of the most vulnerable to heat exhaustion during the summer months,” said Wellington Shire Council Mayor, Carolyn Crossley.

“It’s important that we regularly check on elderly family, friends and neighbours on hot days.

“People should recognise the symptoms of heat exhaustion early, particularly for our senior residents who are at increased risk,” said Mayor Crossley.

Mayor Crossley is encouraging Wellington Shire residents to take advantage of swimming pools, libraries, shopping centres and other public facilities with air conditioning to keep cool during hot weather days.

“We have excellent public facilities across the Shire where people can go to escape the heat.”

During the 2009 heatwave in Victoria, 374 people died from heat related illnesses.

If you or anyone you know feels unwell on a hot day call NURSE-ON-CALL on 1300 60 60 24, or call 000 in an emergency.

For more information about Wellington Shire Council’s public facilities or services, phone 1300 366 244.