Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves. Heat-related illness can range from minor issues like cramps to life-threatening conditions such as heat stroke.
Heatwave
Heatwaves can affect anybody, but those more at risk include:
- the elderly
- people with a chronic mental condition
- people who live alone
How to take care during a heatwave
- Drink extra water, even if you’re not thirsty. If your doctor limits your fluids, check how much to drink during hot weather.
- Check up on old, sick or frail friends and family.
- Spend as much time as possible in cool or air conditioned buildings.
- Use damp towels.
- Have cool showers.
- Block out the sun by closing curtains and blinds.
- Open windows and doors where there’s a cool breeze.
- Don’t leave children, adults or animals in parked vehicles.
- Avoid strenuous activity like sport and gardening.
- If you must go out:
- stay in the shade
- take plenty of water
- wear a hat
- wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
If you have children or pets, download our resources below:
What if I become unwell?
- Stop what you’re doing and sit quietly in a cool place.
- Drink lots of fluids, especially water.
- Wet your skin with cool water or with wet cloths.
- Contact your local GP or ring an ambulance if you continue to feel unwell.
Council places to stay cool
Carnegie Swim Centre
Koornang Park, Moira Avenue, Carnegie
Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre
200 East Boundary Road, Bentleigh East
Carnegie Library and Community Centre
7 Shepparson Avenue, Carnegie
Caulfield Library
Glen Eira Town Hall, corner Glen Eira and Hawthorn Roads, Caulfield
Elsternwick Library
4 Staniland Grove, Elsternwick
Bentleigh Library
161 Jasper Road, Bentleigh
Senior Citizen Centres
Bentleigh Senior Citizens Centre
2 Arthur Street Bentleigh
Carnegie Library and Community Centre
9 Shepparson Avenue Carnegie
Caulfield Senior Citizens Centre
8–10 Cedar Street Caulfield South
East Bentleigh Senior Citizens Centre
1 Derry Street Bentleigh East
Ormond Senior Citizens Centre
2 Newham Grove Ormond
Moorleigh Senior Citizens Centre
Kris Koutomas Wing Moorleigh Community Village, 92 Bignell Road Bentleigh East
For further information on heatwaves, visit the Department of Health’s extreme heat and heatwaves page.
