High air temperature, heavy clothing, high humidity, lack of fitness and high exercise intensity contribute to heat illness.

Sports physician Dr David Bolzonello said heat injuries could be avoided, if the right precautions were taken.

"Knowing how to prepare for heat illness, what causes it and what to look out for will help people avoid it," he said.

Some tips to help prepare for the hot conditions include:

- Stay hydrated by drinking water or sports drinks before, during, and after exercise.

- Schedule your activity to avoid the hottest part of the day.

- Take rest breaks, and in the shade if possible.

- Wear light coloured, lightweight and loose clothes that allow easy evaporation of sweat from the skin.

- Wear sunglasses, 30+ sunscreen and a hat.

- Do not take part in strenuous activity if you have recently experienced a high temperature, infection, diarrhoea or vomiting.

- Persons suffering from heat illness can recover rapidly with assistance - laying down in a cool place, removing excess clothing, wetting skin or using ice packs and drinking cool water.