Extreme heat
Heatwaves are one of the most dangerous natural hazards and extreme heat can pose serious risks to our health and well-being. As temperatures continue to rise due to climate change, it's crucial for our local community to be informed and prepared to stay safe during hot weather.
Heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke and heat exhaustion can be life-threatening, so it’s important to take precautions to minimise these risks.
This page includes information and tips to help you and your loved ones stay safe during hot weather.
Some people are more at risk than others of becoming sick on hot days.
You can help by checking in on your vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours during heatwaves.
People who are more at risk include:
- Babies and children.
- Older people.
- People with existing illnesses.
- People who are pregnant.
There are steps you can take now to prepare for hot weather ahead.
- Check your air conditioners and fans.
- Install blinds or curtains to cover your windows.
- Prepare ice cubes in the freezer.
- Talk to your doctor about whether your medical condition will be affected by heat.
- Prepare for power outages by putting together an emergency kit – for example, torch, batteries and radio.
- Prepare a plan – know who to call for help and make a list of people and phone numbers.
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
- Wear light-coloured and loose fitting clothing.
- Stay out of the sun.
- Have a cool shower.
- Keep your home cool by closing your windows and blinds.
- Check on vulnerable friends and family.
- Keep your pets cool.
If you cannot stay cool at home, you may want to find a cool place to go to.
- Your local library.
- Air-conditioned shopping centre.
- The house of a friend or family member.