Councils in the region offer free pool entry to beat the heat, poll

Right across Australia, and especially in our region the mercury is expected to soar up 47 degrees.

According to the Bureau of Meteorology temperatures in Nyngan and surrounding areas such as Bourke and Cobar are facing a scorching week with temperatures remaining in the 40s until next Wednesday. 

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Because of this the Bogan, Bourke and Cobar Shire councils have decided to offer free pool entry for its residents. 

“Bogan Shire Council has made arrangements to allow free entry to the Nyngan pool today (January 17) and tomorrow (January 18),” the council announced.

“This decision has been taken in light of expected exceptionally high temperatures over 45 degrees occurring at the time of the school holidays.”

The Bourke Shire Council have also released an announcement they would be offering free entry into the Bourke Olympic Swimming Pool on Thursday and Friday this week.

“Due to excessive heat being forecast for Thursday 17 and Friday 18, Bourke Shire Council in conjunction with the Bourke Swimming Pool contractor Mark Hollman will be providing free entry … for patrons during the core hours of 12pm and 8pm on both days,” the statement said. 

Cobar Shire Council are also offering free entry into the Cobar Memorial Swimming pool from Wednesday, January 16 until the close of business on Sunday, January 20.

Residents have been urged to follow a few simple precautions to beat the heat, keep cool and stay safe during the heatwave. 

Western NSW Local Health District health protection manager Priscilla Stanley said some members of the community were more vulnerable to the heat.

“There are a number of steps people can take to protect themselves and people in the community against the heat,” Ms Stanley said.

“People need to be alert for the symptoms associated with heat exhaustion in themselves or others, especially young children and the elderly.

“People need to make the most of shade and well ventilated or air conditioned areas, stay inside during the hottest part of the day and ensure they drink plenty of water,” she said. 

Heat exhaustion symptoms can occur up to 72 hours after an exposure to a heat event, so stay alert.

“People with existing conditions such as heart problems, diabetes or hypertension should take extra care in the heat,” Ms Stanley said.

Other people who may be at risk of heat exhaustion include outdoor workers, people in workplaces with inadequate cooling systems and those undertaking strenuous physical activities.

If possible try to carry out the bulk of the activity during the coolest periods of the day.

Should you have concerns about your own health due to the heat, please contact your GP or attend your local health facility and if you come across someone that has succumbed to the heat, call triple-0 immediately.