As summers get hotter, it’s important to remember that more of us will be at risk and our assumptions about which activities are safe might not be true anymore. Here are some practical tips to stay cool and safe:
Too many Australian homes just aren’t built for the heat. In Melbourne, the average home energy efficiency rating is less than two stars, which means homes that are hot in summer and cold in winter. Some of the ways you can keep your home cooler:
Block out the sun by closing curtains or blinds on sun-facing windows.
Use fans or air conditioning efficiently by keeping doors and windows closed in cooled rooms.
At night or when a cool change comes through, open windows to bring in cooler air, if it’s safe to do so.
Drink water regularly, even if you’re not thirsty, and avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can dehydrate you.
Consider cooling down with wet towels, cool showers, or a damp cloth.
We know that isolation can be deadly in the heat. People living alone, older adults, and those without air conditioning may struggle the most. Sweltering Cities’ Heatwave Check-In program makes it easy to reach out to those at risk. During heatwaves, a simple check-in call or visit can make a real difference. It’s as simple as texting a friend or calling your nan. Learn more at Heatwave Check-In
By being aware of heat risk and talking to colleagues, friends and family about their heatwave plans, we can encourage people to be prepared to manage heat in their homes and workplaces. Ideas for being heat safe include:
If you must go outside, limit outdoor activities to the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are lower.
Wear light-coloured, loose clothing, a hat, and sunscreen for protection.
Have a conversation about a workplace heatwave plan and what additional support might be needed
As climate change is increasing the likelihood of more and longer heatwaves, Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation continues to support communities and community organisations to better plan for heatwaves and reduce their risks, such as by helping community organisations connect and share information via the Community Connector for Resilience. Sweltering Cities is the national community voice for heat safety. They work with communities in Australia’s hot suburbs, homes, towns and workplaces to advocate for more liveable, equitable and sustainable communities. The Greater Melbourne Heat Alliance is a network of over 50 organisations working together on coordinated actions, training, advocacy and more. You can find out more via email. This article was co-authored by Emma Bacon, founder and CEO of Sweltering Cities together with Dr Karyn Bosomworth, the Foundation's Program Manager - Healthy & Climate Resilient Communities.