You should be prepared for extremely hot weather over summer, and ensure that your heatwave plan includes:
setting up fans in living areas and bedrooms. Some people may need assistance from family or carers to do this;
check that air-conditioning units work efficiently. Ensure they’re not still on heat mode after winter and that the thermostat has been reset. Also, make sure that the cool function is clearly marked on the remote control;
access to fluids is important. Have a supply of cool drinks and water in the refrigerator;
make sure you have enough food, drink and medicines for a few days if very hot weather is forecast;
all refrigerated medicines should be kept in the fridge at all times, and other medication may need to be moved to cooler places in the house;
protect your home from heat by pulling down awnings and blinds. Put shade cloth over outdoor pergolas to shade walls and windows; and
think about what you will do if there’s an electricity blackout. Have a list of people you can call for help if needed. Ask whether your phone will work without power, if you have a backup mobile phone, and whether you will be able to ask your neighbours for help.
During extremely hot weather:
keep in touch with friends and family, as they may be your lifeline;
stay hydrated – drink plenty of fluids even if you don’t feel thirsty, taking small amounts often. Don’t drink alcohol and limit tea and coffee as these are mildly diuretic;
stay out of the sun, especially during the hottest part of the day, and do any essential outdoor jobs early in the morning when it’s cooler;
use your air-conditioner or fans. Cooling one room is easier and cheaper than cooling the whole house. Cool your bedroom two or three hours before bedtime, and open windows for ventilation in the evening when it’s cooler;
if you don’t have air-conditioning, arrange to go to a cool place and leave as early as possible to avoid travelling in the heat;
place damp towels around neck and shoulders to cool yourself, place your feet in basin or bucket of cool water. Cool water is better than icy cold, which causes your blood vessels to constrict and slows down the body’s ability to radiate heat. Be mindful of people who can’t do this for themselves such as disabled people, children and babies.
eat frequent small meals and avoid cooking. Store food in the refrigerator;
rest – don’t do unnecessary work, think siesta; and
listen to the radio and television for heatwave information.
Heatwave preparedness plans and fact sheets are available on state government departments of health websites and in many local government offices.