Alarming new data reveals Ambulance Victoria responded to 1697 children stuck in vehicles last year with Ballarat (28 call-outs) ranked the eighth highest postcode for call-outs in the state. Most cases involved toddlers and babies.

Exasperated authorities are pleading with parents to heed the message as the state prepares for its hottest day in almost two years. The mercury is set to hit 38C in Ballarat on Saturday, with northerly winds to reach 39 km/h, making for the city's hottest day since February 9.

Ambulance Victoria spokesman Paul Holman said some parents still believed it was okay to leave their children in a car. 

Mr Holman described the conditions expected across the state as a "blast furnace", and warned people not to underestimate the dangers posed by extreme heat.

"We're not acclimatised. Unfortunately, I think most of us think we're the big, bronzed Aussies - we're not," Mr Holman said. "We live in air-conditioned and cool houses, and drive around in air-conditioned cars. Respect the heat."

Car temperatures can double within minutes, which on an average summer day the temperature inside a parked can become 20 to 30 degrees hotter than outside. Children's body temperatures rise three to five times faster than an adult, putting them at greater risk of life-threatening heatstroke, dehydration and organ damage when left in the car.

Victoria’s chief health officer has issued a heat health warning in Central Victoria, including Ballarat, for Saturday.

Organisations and individuals are urged to prepare for extreme heat: drink more water, more often, even if you do not feel thirsty; never leave anyone, including pets, in the car; stay cool; check in on others, particularly the elderly; plan ahead, stock up and be prepared.

Heat can cause illnesses such as heat cramps and heat exhaustion which can lead to heatstroke, which is life-threatening. If unwell, call NURSE-ON-CALL (1300 60 60 24) for 24-hour advice or see your doctor.

A total fire ban is in force across the state for Saturday. People planning to camp and bush walk have been told to be aware of potential bushfires and heat stress.

Life Saving Victoria has also reiterated a warning for beachgoers to play it safe. Four people have drowned on the state's coastlines since Christmas Day.

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