The Bureau of Meteorology has confirmed that another El Niño event is underway, bringing hot and dry conditions to much of Australia.
Climate change, driven by the burning of coal, oil and gas, is already leading to hotter, longer and more intense heatwaves in Australia. With El Niño occurring against this backdrop of a fast warming planet, we need to be prepared for some extreme temperatures this summer.
Heatwaves are known as a silent killer – they cause more deaths than any other extreme weather event in Australia combined, including bushfires, floods and cyclones.
As the days get hotter, it’s important to keep cool and know how to look after yourself, your family and your furry friends during a heatwave this holiday period.
Here are our top tips for how you can beat the heat this summer:
At home
- Spend time in cool, well air-conditioned placed or places with indoor fans. If you do not have air conditioning or indoor fans at home, seek out places that do, such as public libraries, shopping centres etc.
- Complete any essential outdoor tasks early in the day
- Cancel all non-essential outdoor tasks – particularly those involving physical activity
- The elderly, sick and young are particularly vulnerable and should stay in cool environments, and wear cool, comfortable clothes
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
- Avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine, such as teas or coffee
- Check with your local council to hear their heatwave plan
- Use damp cloths to cool yourself and loved ones
- Ensure food is refrigerated properly and immediately dispose of spoilt food
Transport/infrastructure
- Stay informed and up to date about planned disruptions
- Have a back-up plan in case electricity or transport (road/rail) infrastructure fails
Wildlife
- Leave out shallow containers of water for birds, possums, and other animals, placing small stones in the bottom of the container and ensuring that the water is left in a shady, protected environment (out of view from birds of prey and high enough to be safe from cats)
- If you find injured or heat-stressed wildlife, bring them into cooler environments and lightly mist with water
- If you are concerned about an animal, call a wildlife rescue centre near you.
Pets
- Ensure your pets have plenty of water and shade for the day
- If dogs or cats appear heat stressed, panting or restless, bath in cool water
- Add ice cubes to pets’ drinking water
- Call your vet if you are concerned about a pet
- Find out more tips and tricks to keep your furry friends cool here
Always
- Take care of yourself
- Stay hydrated
- Stay cool
- Avoid the sun
- Keep in touch with family, friends, and neighbours
- Stay informed
- Seek medical advice if you feel unwell
