With school holidays around the corner, Portland District Health’s new Director of Medical Services Andrew Walby has some sage advice for keeping safe.
Dr Walby has 38 years of healthcare experience, mostly in emergency medicine, and has seen many examples of holiday-related injuries.
“There are a lot of things we should remember to avoid the perils of school holidays,” he said.
Water safety is high on the list. “Drowning has been a significant problem over summer but the risk remains relevant in April when we can also experience warm weather,” Dr Walby said.
“We need to remain vigilant about the weather. If it’s hot, remember to slip slop slap; avoid dehydration and don’t leave children and pets in cars.
“It’s also good to have a bushfire plan if you’re camping or live in a high-risk area, and remember to leave early and dress appropriately, including footwear, if there is an emergency.”
On the other side of the ledger, flood awareness is essential and Dr Walby urges people to never drive or swim through flood waters.
Many will turn to the great outdoors over the holidays and while bushwalking is great exercise, it can be dangerous. Dr Walby urges people to avoid areas where falls are a risk, have a plan and map to avoid getting lost and remember to tell people where you are going and when you’ll return.
Road trauma can be one of the most devastating threats during school holidays when roads are more congested. “People may be driving on unfamiliar roads and need to be on the lookout for threats such as potholes; large vehicles and tired or speeding drivers, not to mention animals that regularly wander onto the roads in many tourist areas,” Dr Walby said.
A break from routine can also mean a break from regular health protocols. “Holidays mean you can be away from your usual healthcare practitioners and may forget to bring your medications or even cease taking medications to make travel easier,” Dr Walby said.
“It is safest to stick with your regular prescribed medication routine.”
Portland District Health wishes you a safe and relaxing break this Easter and School Holiday period.
