Pryme aids rescue workers in flood-hit Townsville

Over the summer, Australia was in the grip of a damaging heatwave that saw the temperature in most parts of Australia rise to dangerous levels. 

Townsville, in North Queensland, recorded its highest temperature of the year at 40.3°C, over 9° hotter than the average temperature of February. Totally unprecedented, the 15 hottest temperatures recorded anywhere on Earth were all in Australia for a number of days during this heatwave.

Ensuring hydration during difficult times 

While heatwaves and scorching temperatures affect people from all walks of life, none are more susceptible than rescue workers. They have to perform intense physical activities, often in severe conditions, which often take a toll on their health. The PPE, their heavy protective uniform, exacerbates the heat.

It is essential to maintain the body fluid level at times like this or risk serious ailments such as heat stroke and dehydration. Intense heat coupled with physical activities results in loss of electrolytes, which must be restored to normal levels by drinking a surplus amount of electrolyte-enhanced drinks. Which is why hydration supplier Pryme was committed to supporting rescue workers in the flood-hit town of Townsville.

The flood in Townsville

The erratic weather conditions in many parts of Australia caused a severe flood in Townsville. While the rest of the country was battling with the heatwave, Townsville was partially submerged by the flood brought by incessant rain.

According to official reports, more than 20,000 homes were affected by this flood, with over 3300 enduring direct flood damage. The flood has claimed the lives of three Townsville residents with damages in excess of $4 million.

Essentials like electricity and water were in scant supply, making lives of Townsville residents even harder. Personnel at Queensland Fire and Emergency Services were working overtime to gauge the level of damage and carry out rescue operations where necessary.

Waterborne diseases are common during times of flood, which is why Pryme took the initiative to supply its premium workplace hydration solution, Sqwincher, to rescue workers in the Townsville flood.

“As a company that has closely worked with rescue workers for many years, we understand the severity of dehydration and other heat stress-related ailments during rescue work. As such, we have supplied rescue personnel in Townsville with Sqwincher electrolyte powder and coolers for their continued hydration in these difficult times,” said  Pryme Managing Director Terry Houlihan.

Pryme appreciated the help of its partners in ensuring its drinks reached the rescuers. Distributor Hip Pocket Workwear and Safety Townsville coordinated the Sqwincher supply, while partner TIG Freight shipped the Sqwincher at no charge.

“Working as an effective team, we successfully supplied Sqwincher to places where it was desperately needed,” Houlihan said. 

Image credit: ©stock.adobe.com/au/mbruxelle