Heatwave tips and tricks: How to keep cool and stay safe as high temperatures sweep across Australia this week

Severe weather warnings for large parts of Australia have been issued as millions brace for a significant heatwave.

Majority of the country will be affected by this extreme heat, with warnings in place for NSW, Victoria, Western Australia, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory.

Some areas in Victoria and South Australia are expected to see consecutive days of temperatures in the mid-40s, according to the Bureau of Meteorology.

Severe and extreme heatwaves have claimed more lives than any other natural hazard in Australia, so it’s important to be prepared before the extreme heat hits.

Older people and young children are most at risk of developing heat-related illnesses, however, extreme heat can affect even the healthiest individuals.

Here’s how to stay safe and keep cool over the next couple of days.

How do I prepare for the heatwave?

Tasmania Health says being prepared for hot weather is important, and here are some simple things you can do:

• Plan to keep in touch with family, friends and neighbours.

• Check fans, air-conditioners, refrigerators and freezers are working properly. Make sure heat pumps are set to cool.

• Keep up to date with local weather forecasts.

• Make sure you have contact details for your GP, pharmacist, and healthdirect (1800 022 222).

• Speak to your doctor if you have chronic health conditions or are on regular medications to plan what to do during hot weather.

• Think about your pets and how you will keep them healthy, hydrated and cool.

• Stock up at home to avoid going out in hot weather - try to have basic groceries, water and medications that last up to a week.

It’s also important to check the daily forecast and be aware of any warnings on the Bureau of Meteorology website.

If you’re in an area at risk of fires, ensure you have a bush fire survival plan.

How do I keep cool?

The Bureau of Meteorology and NSW Ambulance have some tips and tricks for staying cool during the heatwave:

• Seek place to keep cool: this could be your home, a library, community centre, or shopping centre.

• Keep heat out: close your windows and draw your blinds, curtains, or awnings early in the day.

• Staying cool: use fans or air-conditioners if available.

• Stay hydrated: drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or sugary drinks.

• Limit outdoor activities: avoid the hottest parts of the day and take regular breaks in the shade.

• Check on others: look after elderly relatives, neighbours and all those who might need extra help.

• Manage your medication: follow your doctor’s advice and store medicines in a cool place.

WA Health has some additional tips to make the extreme heat more bearable:

• Make ice cubes from water or cordial and either use them to keep fluids cold or suck them to lower your body temperature.

• Take a cool shower or bath. Alternatively, you can put your feet in a bowl of cool water.

• Wet your face and body with a face-washer or towel, or use a water filled spray bottle, then stand in front of a fan.

• Flipping your pillow over to the other side can help if you wake up hot.

Why is it dangerous?

If the humidity is high, temperatures above 32C can be considered dangerous. In dry heat, temperatures above 40C can pose significant health risks.

If the body cannot cool down, heat-related illness and even death is possible.

At a core body temperature of 39C, mild heat exhaustion can occur, causing symptoms such as headaches and faintness.

Once the body’s core temperature rises to 40C, vomiting and disorientation is likely, and at 43C, death is very likely.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency, and you should act quickly.

Call Triple Zero (000) immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke, including:

• Nausea

• Confusion or unconsciousness

• Lack of sweating

• High body temperatures (above 40°C)