Extreme Heat

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Extreme heat is a period of unusually high and sustained temperatures that exceeds normal local averages and places heavy stress on human health, infrastructure, and the environment.

Heat kills more Australians than any other natural disaster.

It's not just older people and the very young who are at risk – extreme heatwaves can affect anyone's health.

During extreme heat it is easy to become dehydrated or for your body to overheat. If this happens, you may develop heat cramps, heat exhaustion or even heatstroke. Heatstroke is a medical emergency which can result in permanent damage to your vital organs, or even death, if not treated immediately.

With heatwaves being a regular feature of the Victorian summer, it's important to plan ahead and consider how you can look after yourself and others when the extreme heat hits.

Plan ahead for extreme heat

  • stock up on food, water and medicines so that you don't have to go out in the heat
  • store medicines safely at the recommended temperature
  • check your fans and service your home cooling systems and air conditioner
  • make sure pets have plenty of shade and cool water for the day and check them regularly
  • know your neighbours and if they are at risk
  • look at things you can do to make your home cooler; such as installing window coverings, shade cloths or external blinds on the sides of the house facing the sun
  • keep the sun out by drawing your curtains, blinds and awnings at the start of the day

Further information can be found at www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/extreme-heat.

How to stay safe and cool during extreme heat

  • Stay hydrated and drink water - even if you don't feel thirsty
  • Take a bottle of water with you everywhere
  • Use air conditioning or a fan
  • Wear light and loose-fitting clothing
  • Keep your skin wet (for example, with a spray bottle or damp sponge)
  • Take cool showers or foot baths
  • Stay up to date with weather forecasts in your area
  • Prepare for a possible power outage
  • Close blinds or curtains to block heat from entering your home and if you need to head out
  • If the hottest part of the day is coming, avoid outdoor work or exercise and reschedule strenuous activities to a cooler time
  • Reschedule activities that aren't essential
  • Check in on your neighbours, pets, loved ones and people you know may be more vulnerable to extreme heat

Hot cars kill - never leave kids, adults or pets in hot cars. The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes.

How to take care of animals during extreme heat

  • Provide plenty of fresh water: Ensure pets have access to clean, cool water at all times.
  • Offer shade and shelter: Keep animals out of direct sunlight and provide a cool, shaded area.
  • Avoid hot surfaces: Pavements and roads can become dangerously hot and burn paws. Walk pets early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
  • Never leave pets in cars: Even with windows down, temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly and become fatal.
  • Monitor for aigns of heat stress: Symptoms include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and collapse. If you suspect heat stress, seek veterinary care immediately.
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