16/10/2026
HEATWAVE | PLEASE LOOK AFTER PEOPLE AND ANIMALS
With very hot weather affecting parts of South Africa, please take extra care of yourself, your family, your staff and the animals in your care. Heat related illness can become serious quickly, especially for young children, older people, people with existing health conditions and anyone working outdoors.
For people:
• Drink water regularly and rest in a cool or shaded place.
• Limit strenuous activity and time in direct sun during the hottest part of the day.
• Wear light clothing, a hat and sunscreen when outdoors.
• Check in on elderly neighbours, young children and anyone who may be alone or vulnerable.
• Never leave a child or person inside a parked vehicle.
• If you work outdoors, make sure staff have access to drinking water, shade and regular opportunities to cool down.
Watch for signs of heat illness, such as headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, heavy sweating or muscle cramps. Move the person to a cooler place, loosen tight clothing and help them cool down with a wet cloth or fan. Confusion, fainting, seizures or collapse are emergencies seek urgent medical help.
For animals:
• Provide clean, cool drinking water and deep shade throughout the day.
• Bring pets indoors, if possible, during the hottest hours.
• Never leave an animal in a parked car, even with the windows open.
• Walk and exercise dogs early in the morning or later in the evening. Avoid hot paving, which can burn their paws.
• Check kennels, runs and outdoor areas for shade and good airflow as the sun moves.
Excessive panting, restlessness, weakness, vomiting, wobbling or collapse can be signs that an animal is overheating. Move the animal to a cool place, begin cooling with cool water and contact a veterinarian urgently. Do not force water into an animal that is weak or unable to drink normally.
Please check on one another and keep an eye on the animals who depend on us. A little care and preparation can prevent a dangerous situation.
BCI SECURITY & BCI K9 ACADEMY
If you see someone or an animal in distress, please act and get help.
