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If a heatwave is forecast or already affecting your area, act now to protect yourself, your family and anyone in your community who may be at risk.
What to do when experiencing a heatwave
Drink water regularly through the day, before you feel thirsty. Aim for 2 to 3 litres a day. If you're thirsty, you're already dehydrated.
Avoid alcohol and drinks high in sugar or caffeine. These make dehydration worse.
Stay indoors in the coolest part of your home between 10am and 3pm. Avoid strenuous outdoor work or exercise during this window.
Use fans and air conditioning. If you don't have air conditioning at home, go to an air-conditioned public space, such as a library or shopping centre.
Never leave children, older people, people with disability or animals in a parked car, even for a moment.
Check in on elderly relatives, neighbours and anyone who may be vulnerable. Make sure pets have shade, water and shelter.
Know the signs of heat-related illness
Early signs to watch for:
Heavy sweating
Thirst
Headache
Dizziness
Nausea
Muscle cramps
Irritability
Tiredness
If symptoms don't improve with rest, water and cooling down, it may be heat exhaustion.
Signs of heat exhaustion include:
pale skin
profuse sweating
a fast weak pulse, or
fainting.
Move the person to a cool place, remove excess clothing, cool them with wet cloths and give small sips of cool water.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Watch for confusion, hot dry skin, a rapid pulse or loss of consciousness.
Call Triple Zero (000) immediately.
If you're unsure or need advice, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or speak with your healthcare provider.
