LIKE much of the state, Dubbo sweltered through Friday with temperatures reaching their forecast maximums of 41 degrees.
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For the second continuous day, community members were looking for ways to beat the heat as the oppressive conditions gave people a taste of what is to come during the summer months.
Emergency services issued warnings to residents as the heat wave hit NSW, with the police reactivating their bushfire arson investigation unit in a bid to stamp out bush fires.
Fire and Rescue NSW Dubbo station commander Mark Weir said there were many measures people could take to help make their houses less of a fire hazard.
"Fires can easily start around the home from faulty wiring so if you are using airconditioners and alike it is important to ensure they are up to scratch," he said.
"You need to be careful when doing work around the yard as any spark can potentially cause a fire so a caution first approach is definitely the best option, especially in these hot conditions."
In light of the heat wave and with UV levels expected to soar, Cancer Council Western NSW representative Brianna Carracher said it is extremely important people slip, slop, slap, seek and hide during such times.
"UV levels are expected in the extreme range today (Friday) and we strongly encourage everybody to take care when outside by applying sunscreen, wearing long-sleeved clothing, popping on sunglasses and hats, and staying out of the sun during peak hours," she said.
"It's important that people don't just rely on one form of sun protection today (Friday) but use a combination of measures to ensure their skin is protected."
NSW Ambulance paramedics gave several pieces of advice to community members to ensure their health was not affected by the adverse weather conditions.
Drinking plenty of water, staying out of direct sunlight where possible, never leaving children or pets in the car, do not over-consume alcohol and ensuring heavy or strenuous activities are not undertaken during the hottest part of the day were some of the suggestions that came forward from the paramedics.