Heatwave safety is key as South Western Sydney prepares for record breaking summer temperatures, making it essential to take steps to stay safe. Heatwaves significantly impact health, particularly for older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions.
Extreme heat is not just uncomfortable, it can also be dangerous. Here is how to stay cool, safe and prepared.
Stay hydrated
Keeping hydrated is vital in extreme heat
- drink two to three litres of water daily, even if you don’t feel thirsty
- avoid alcohol, caffeine and sugary drinks as they can dehydrate you
- keep a water bottle nearby and remind children and older adults to sip water regularly
Keep cool indoors and outdoors
Managing your environment can help you stay cool:
- stay indoors during the hottest part of the day (11am to 5pm)
- use fans or air conditioning, or visit public places like libraries or shopping centres if your home is too hot
- wear loose, light-coloured clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton
- close blinds and curtains during the day to keep your home cooler
Look after vulnerable people and pets
Some groups need extra care in the heat:
- check-in regularly on the older people to ensure they are staying cool and drinking enough water
- make sure pets have access to fresh water and shaded areas
- never leave children or animals in parked cars, even for a few minutes
Know the signs of heat-related illnesses
Extreme heat can cause serious health issues like:
Heat exhaustion
What is heat exhaustion?
Heat exhaustion is your body’s response to a loss of water and salt in hot weather, usually through excessive sweating or excessive physical activity.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion
- pale skin
- headache
- nausea, vomiting
- dizziness, fainting
- weakness
- irritability
- thirst
- heavy sweating
- muscle cramps
- decreased urine output
Heatstroke
What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke is the most severe heat-related illness. In extreme heat, your body’s ability to cool itself down can fail, causing your body temperature to increase to a dangerous level. If left untreated, this can result in permanent disability or death. Heat stroke requires immediate medical emergency care.
Symptoms of heat stroke?
- confusion
- slurred speech
- agitation and altered mental state
- loss of consciousness
- profuse sweating or hot, dry skin
- muscle twitching or seizures
- rapid breathing
- a quick and strong pulse
- very high body temperature
Plan ahead
Preparation is key to managing a heatwave:
- ensure air conditioners, fans, refrigerators and freezers are working properly
- learn how to safely store food and medications during hot weather and power outages
- keep contact details for people who can assist you in case of need
- make a plan with family, friends or neighbours to stay in touch during heatwaves
- save contact details for your GP or reliable health advice sources like healthdirect
- speak with your doctor about managing chronic conditions or medications during hot weather
- identify local heat relief options, such as:
- air-conditioned public spaces like libraries and shopping centres
- parks with vegetation and shaded areas
- install curtains or blinds on sun-facing windows to stay cooler