VIC Emergency have issued an advice message for people with respiratory issues for Thursday, December 2.
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The advice message is to advise that people may experience asthma symptoms or difficulty breathing due to the combination of thunderstorm activity and high grass pollen levels in BoM Central Forecast District.
- If you have a history of asthma or hay fever, or you experience wheezing, breathlessness, a feeling of tightness in the chest or a persistent cough, you should have reliever medication with you at all times today.
- Avoid the wind gusts before the storm. Go inside and close your windows and doors before and during the storm.
- If you're experiencing any of the above symptoms you may be having an asthma attack.
- An asthma attack is serious and can be life threatening.
- If you develop asthma symptoms, follow your asthma action plan, or if you don't have a plan, follow the 4 steps of asthma first aid.
Be aware of an increased chance of having an ashma attack or breathing difficulties. Call triple zero (000) immediately if someone is not breathing, if their asthma suddenly becomes worse or is not improving, or if the person is having an asthma attack and a reliever is not available.
IN OTHER NEWS:
What you should do:
- If you have asthma carry a reliever puffer (usually blue) on you at all times today.
- If you have hay fever, review the asthma first aid steps and have a reliever puffer suitably available.
- If using air conditioning, turn it onto recirculate.
If you are experiencing asthma symptoms for the first time:
- Don't ignore them, see your doctor to make a diagnosis and if severe call Triple Zero (000).
- If required use asthma first aid. Remember that asthma relievers are available from pharmacies without a prescription.
- Make sure you follow up with your doctor.
- Call Nurse on Call on 1300 60 60 24 or see your doctor if you require medical advice.
General storm messaging:
- Stay safe by avoiding dangerous hazards, such as floodwater, mud, debris, damaged roads and fallen trees.
- Stay away from fallen powerlines - always assume they are live.
- Drive slowly, obey all road signs and never drive through floodwater.
- If driving conditions are dangerous, safely pull over away from trees, drains, low-lying areas and floodwater.
- Avoid travel if possible.
For Friday, December 3 there is currently a low risk for epidemic thunderstorm asthma.
Alison Foletta
Alison Foletta specialises in local government and court stories. For story tips on Ballarat and local government email: alison.foletta@austcommunitymedia.com.au
Alison Foletta specialises in local government and court stories. For story tips on Ballarat and local government email: alison.foletta@austcommunitymedia.com.au
