Heatwaves are the deadliest natural hazard in Queensland, leading to the loss of more than 100 lives every year.
Queensland is experiencing an increase in the frequency and duration of heat waves, which is why you need to understand how to stay safe during these conditions.
What is a heatwave?
A heatwave is any long period of very hot weather. In Australia, heatwaves usually range from 37°C to 42°C. Check out the Bureau of Meteorology’s video below to learn more about heatwaves and why they occur.
Understand your risk
Heat waves can impact anyone. However, there are members in our community who are particularly vulnerable and need to take special care during heat waves. This includes:
- babies and young people
- elderly
- people with medical conditions such as asthma
- pets, and
- people who work in the outdoors.
If you are in one of these vulnerable categories, or care for someone who is, it is important to follow a few simple steps to reduce your risk to stay cool and hydrated during heat waves.
Steps to reduce the impact of a heatwave
Watch SafeWork South Australia’s video on heat awareness and the simple steps you can take to keep you and those you care for safe during a heatwave.
• Think of simple ways to make your home or building cooler
• Have air conditioners serviced before the beginning of summer.
• Limit intake of alcohol, soft drinks, tea or coffee.
• Eat as you normally would but try to eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit. Avoid heavy protein foods which raise body heat and increase fluid loss.
• If you can, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm). Avoid strenuous activities and gardening.
• Do not leave children, adults or animals in parked cars.
• If you do go out, wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, porous clothes, a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen.
• Regularly rest in the shade and drink plenty of water.
• Use fans and air-conditioners at home to keep cool, or spend time elsewhere in air-conditioning.
• Take frequent cool showers or baths and splash yourself several times a day with cold water.
Find out more and Get Ready
Check out these other pages and resources to help you Get Ready.
