Community Health and Care News


Posted: Wednesday 18 November 2009


Bushfire prone areas: relocate older family members

With extreme heat forecast to hit Adelaide over the next two days, older people in bushfire-prone areas should consider relocating earlier, according to the Royal District Nursing Service in SA.


Spokesperson Dr Debbie Kralik said older and vulnerable people such as those visited by RDNS staff are often not in a position to evacuate quickly.


The RDNS has bushfire-related advice for their clients across Adelaide, including:

  • Older people and those who are vulnerable should consider evacuating early, such as arranging to spend the next two days at a relative’s home.
  • Evacuating neighbours worried about an older RDNS client in their street can contact RDNS on 1300 364 264, who will contact the client’s next-of-kin.
  • When evacuating, ensure to take medications and other health-related supplies.
  • RDNS can redirect health-care visits to the point of evacuation, for example a relative’s home.
  • In the case of an actual bushfire RDNS will provide care at the point of evacuation whether that is a community hall or other facility.