This Advice message is being issued for extreme heat in North Central.

• Temperatures at or above heat health thresholds have been forecast for today, 28th of December, 2018.

Protect your health:

• Heat can make anyone sick.
• People over 65, the very young and those with a pre-existing medical condition are most at risk.
• Heat related illness can range from mild conditions, such as a rash or cramps, to heat stroke – which is life threatening.
• It is vital to monitor your health and the health of those around you. Act early. 
• To find out more information visit: www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/heat-stress-and-heat-related-illness.

You should be aware of the risk of heat related illness and take actions early to keep yourself and others safe.

What you should do:

• Drink plenty of water Always take a bottle with you.
• Hot cars kill Never leave kids, adults or pets in cars. The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes.
• Keep cool Seek out air-conditioned buildings, use a fan, take cool showers and dress in light, loose clothing made from natural fabrics.
• Plan ahead Schedule activities in the coolest part of the day and avoid exercising in the heat. If you must go out, wear a hat and sunscreen and take a bottle of water with you.
• Help others Look after those most at risk in the heat – your friends and family or your neighbour living alone, the elderly, the young, people with a medical condition and don’t forget your pets.
• Water Safety Inland waterways, including rivers, creeks, lakes and dams are great for water recreation, but it is important to remember they have many hidden dangers, such as submerged objects, debris and strong currents. Follow these four safety tips:

1. Wear a life jacket.
2. Avoid alcohol around water.
3. Never swim alone.
4. Learn how to save a life.

Visit www.watersafety.vic.gov.au for more information.

Impacts in your area:

• Temperatures at or above heat health thresholds have been forecast for today, 28th of December, 2018.

This message was issued by Emergency Management Commissioner.

The next update is expected by 29/12/2018 12:00 am or as the situation changes.

Where to get help:

• Call Nurse-On-Call on 1300 60 60 24 for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days).
• Your doctor – if you, or someone you know, may be suffering from a heat-related illness.
• In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
• Survive the heat information is available in several languages.

Stay informed:

• Via www.emergency.vic.gov.au.
• Tune in to ABC Local Radio, commercial and designated community radio stations, or Sky News TV.
• Call the VicEmergency Hotline to talk to someone about this warning on 1800 226 226 (freecall).
• People who are deaf, hard of hearing, or who have a speech/communication impairment can contact VicEmergency Hotline via the National Relay Service on 1800 555 677.
• For help with English, call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to telephone VicEmergency Hotline. If you know someone who cannot speak English, provide them with this number.
• Download the VicEmergency app or follow VicEmergency on Twitter (#survivetheheat) or Facebook.