Extreme heat can affect anybody. It can impact your health or amplify existing conditions.
Those more at-risk include people over the age of 65, babies and young children, pregnant women, people with acute or chronic health problems and people who are socially isolated.
Here are some tips on coping with extreme heat
During extreme heat, whether it’s one hot day or a heatwave, remember:
- Drink water, to stay adequately hydrated (if your doctor normally limits your fluids, check with your doctor how much to drink during hot weather)
- Keep yourself cool by using damp towels containing ice, putting your feet in cool water and taking cool (not cold) showers
- If you don’t have air conditioning, consider visiting an air-conditioned shopping centre or public library, or other places mentioned above
- Block out the sun at home during the day by closing curtains and blinds. If you are in a Bushfire Prone Area, prioritise staying aware of your surroundings
- Open the windows when there is a cool breeze, the outside temperature is cooler than inside, and if it is safe to do so
- Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day. If you do have to go outside, wear a hat and sunscreen, and seek shade
- Cancel or postpone outings. If you absolutely must go out, stay in the shade and take plenty of water with you
- Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made from natural fibres like cotton and linen
- Eat smaller meals more often and cold meals such as salads
- Make sure food that needs refrigeration is properly stored
- Allow yourself plenty of time to rest and avoid heavy activity like sport, renovating and gardening
- Watch, read or listen to news reports to find out more information during extreme heat and when heatwaves are forecast.
If you can’t stay cool at home, and need a place to go, visit a location on the map below.
Always call ahead for operating hours and times. Avoid travelling in the middle of a day.
