NSW govt heatwave failure puts lives at risk – catchup strategy urgently needed

Sydney Morning Herald, page 2, http://bit.ly/6tOiw0

"The government’s failure to develop a comprehensive heatwave strategy
risks lives, particularly among vulnerable groups like the elderly,
babies and those with chronic disease,” Greens MP and health
spokesperson Ms Rhiannon said.

"This gap in policy reflects the government’s head in the sand
approach to climate change.

“A plan to combat extreme heat will save lives, reduce health costs
and guard against lost workplace productivity.

"NSW has been left in the dust, with other jurisdictions in Australia
and overseas developing complex strategies to prevent the serious
health and social consequences of heat waves.

“The website of the Federal Department of Climate Change predicts that
the number of heat related deaths in Sydney residents over 65 could
double by 2020 to between 364 and 417 a year.

"Developing early warning systems for services and the public,
preparing hospitals, medical centres and GPs and launching
comprehensive public education programs must start now.

"Long term work is also needed to ensure local communities are better
heat proofed through careful urban planning and housing initiatives
like passive solar retrofitting.

"The writing is on the wall when it comes to the climate change
induced health risks of hotter weather.

“Heat related deaths and illnesses are set to rise with an increasing
number of extreme temperature.

"Meanwhile, the NSW government is dawdling along, issuing an
occasional media release and sponsoring a couple of pilot programs,”
Ms Rhiannon said.

For more information:  Lee Rhiannon 0427 861 568
More detailed media brief on the issue available on request.