With summer upon us in Albany, St John Ambulance is offering some advice to help get through the warm weather. Even though some days may not feel like a typical summer day, we shouldn't be complacent. Here are some tips.
DROWNING
- Drowning is a very real risk at this time of year. Whether you’re at the beach or by the pool, children must be supervised at all times.
- Pool safety mustn’t be treated lightly. If people are swimming – especially kids – at your place, you need to ensure there’s at least one responsible adult, ideally with first aid skills – who can respond quickly in the case of an accident.
- In the case of a near drowning, pull the patient from the water, check if the person is unconscious, if so call for the ambulance, and then begin CPR.
DEHYDRATION
- In summer, staying hydrated is a must – and by that we mean drink lots of water. The hotter the weather is, the more you need to rehydrate. Older people and babies are particularly susceptible to dehydration.
- Also, if you’re working outdoors or planning a day outdoors, maybe at the beach or fun park… the more water you need to drink.
- Soft drinks, juice, alcohol, tea and coffee are more likely to dehydrate you. Water is the best drink for rehydrating.
HEAT EXHAUSTION/HEAT STROKE
- If you’re heading outdoors during the day – for work or leisure - wear a wide-brimmed hat, reapply sunscreen regularly and keep your shirt on and try to make it a long sleeve shirt.
- Take regular breaks in the shade if you can.
- Here’s what to do: if someone you know suffers heat stroke or heat exhaustion:
- Move them to a cool place
- Get them to sit or lie in a comfortable position
- Remove unnecessary clothing and loosen tight clothing.
- Sponge the patient with cold water or apply a cold pack, particularly around the neck or armpits.
- Give them cool water to drink.
- In the case of Heat Stroke – when the patient can suffer seizures or lose consciousness - call an ambulance and begin CPR if required.