Heat Wave Information
Are you prepared for a heat wave?
Being prepared for weather changes is important, especially when we transition into warmer months. An increase in heat throughout the day can affect us all in different ways, so it's important to understand how to best prepare yourself and others for the warmer weather throughout the year. Everyone is potentially at risk during extremely hot weather, but some people have a higher risk of becoming ill than others.
Those at higher risk are:
• older people, particularly the frail or over 65
• pregnant women, babies and young children
• those who live on their own or who don’t live close to other people
• people who work outdoors, or who are physically active
• people with a physical disability, or those with a serious chronic condition (heart problems, breathing problems, diabetes, serious mental illness, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or those who are very overweight)
• people taking certain types of medications, including those affecting sweating and body temperature
• a person with a high temperature from an existing infection.
It is very important that those at higher risk take extra care of themselves during hot weather.
It is also important that family, friends and neighbours of those at higher risk keep in contact with these people regularly to make sure they are coping with the extreme heat.
Public Health Hotline: 1800 671 738
When enjoying the sunny weather, there are a few key things you can do to make sure you're well prepared. This includes:
Heat Wave Information(PDF, 2MB)
Are you prepared for a heat wave?(PDF, 1MB)