Heat stress and heat-related illness
Summary
Heat kills more Australians than any natural disaster.
Heatstroke is fatal in up to 80% of cases.
During the 2009 Victorian heatwave the number of deaths increased by 374 people.
Heat-related illness can be prevented.
Keep cool, avoid vigorous physical activity in hot weather, and drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic fluids.
Never leave children, older people or pets unattended in a car.
Call Triple Zero (000) if a person shows any signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
On this page:
People most at risk of heat-related illness
Causes of heat stress and heat-related illness
Symptoms of heat-related illness
Treatment for heat-related illness
Prevention of heat-related illness
Where to get help
Things to remember
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/heat-stress-and-heat-related-illness