Who is most at risk in the heat

Heat can make anyone ill, but some people are at greater risk and need extra attention. The Health Ministry's public health advisory on extreme heat names them.

Who is at higher risk. Infants and young children; pregnant women; people who work outdoors; people with a mental illness; and people who are physically ill, especially with heart disease or high blood pressure. The advisory also says elderly or sick people living alone should be checked on and their health monitored every day. Travellers arriving from a colder place should allow about a week for their bodies to get used to the heat, avoid overexertion and drink plenty of water.

What you can do. Call or visit older neighbours and relatives during hot spells. Keep babies and young children out of the midday sun and offer drinks often. If you take medicines for a heart condition or blood pressure, ask your doctor how heat affects you. Never leave children in a parked vehicle.

Danger signs in children. The advisory lists refusal to feed, excessive irritability, reduced urine, a dry mouth, no tears or sunken eyes, drowsiness or confusion, and seizures. Seek medical help immediately.

In an emergency, call 108 or 102 if someone has a high body temperature and is unconscious, confused or has stopped sweating.

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