South Australians Urged to Register for Telecross REDi
We may have shivered our way through Christmas Day in most parts of South Australia, but don’t let that fool you. According to the Bureau of Meteorology, we’re in for a sweltering summer and vulnerable South Australians are strongly encouraged to register for welfare checks.
Teaming up with the Australian Red Cross, the Telecross REDi service is accepting registrations from people who are vulnerable or isolated, offering them the potential for a life-saving phone call during officially declared heatwaves. Trained volunteers make calls to registered participants and in the case of an unanswered call or if someone appears to be in distress, an emergency procedure is set in motion to ensure their safety and well-being.
This service is especially crucial for individuals living alone, the elderly, those with disabilities, individuals experiencing mental health issues, recovering from illnesses or accidents, or managing ongoing health conditions.
Given the projected warmer and drier summer in South Australia compared to the past two years people at risk of extreme heat or their friends and family are strongly encouraged to register.
Minister for Human Services, Nat Cook, emphasised, “While our recent summers in South Australia have been unusually cool, it’s expected this one will be an absolute scorcher. We don’t want South Australians to be complacent, especially when it comes to being safe during periods of extreme heat. That’s why our Government is strongly encouraging vulnerable or isolated South Australians, or their loved ones on their behalf, to opt in to Telecross REDi.”
During declared heatwaves, defined as three consecutive days where the average temperature is 32 degrees or more, the Telecross REDi service provides peace of mind for at-risk South Australians, ensuring someone checks in on them and offers assistance if they struggle with the heat.
Apart from offering crucial support to the community’s most vulnerable, these welfare calls also serve as timely reminders and ways to stay cool, hydrated, and safe.
Australian Red Cross State Director for South Australia, Sarah Strathearn, noted, “It’s important to remember that a heatwave isn’t just another hot day. Heatwaves can pose serious risks to health, especially for older people, young children, outdoor workers and people with medical conditions.”
To stay safe during extreme weather events, the Australian Red Cross recommends various tips, including staying hydrated, eating smaller, more frequent meals, staying indoors during the hottest part of the day, taking cool showers, ensuring air circulation, seeking shade, and looking out for neighbours and the community.
To register or learn more, call 1800 188 071, email [email protected], or visit their website.
For more information on preparing for emergencies like heatwaves, click here and download the Australian Red Cross’ free first aid app for quick access to key signs and symptoms.
