Keep cool – seek shelter from the heat in your home or in the shade. Cool your body down by wetting the skin with spray bottles, cold water immersion, wet clothing, misting fans, foot immersions in cold water. Circulate the air around you by using fans and air conditioning if possible. If it’s just too hot at your place, consider visiting an air-conditioned place.
Stay hydrated – Drink more water during hot weather (200mL every 15 to 20 minutes), regardless of how active you are. Do not wait until you are thirsty to drink. Drink plenty of water or other cool, non-alcoholic fluids. Avoid alcohol or drinks that contain lots of sugar.
Protect yourself outside – if you must be outdoors, protect yourself from the sun. Cover exposed skin with lightweight clothes, natural fibres if possible, such as cotton or linen, use sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses.
Move in the cooler parts of the day - whether it’s work or play, too much physical activity on a hot day can lead to heat stress. If you can, restrict activity or travel to cooler parts of the day.
Never leave people or pets in cars – even on cool days or if the windows are left open a fraction. Cars can heat up to dangerous temperatures very quickly. People and pets left unattended in parked cars for even a few minutes are at risk of serious heat-related illnesses and possibly death.
Watch out for others – check on people who may need help coping with the heat.
Watch out for your pets – provide shade outdoors and lots of fresh, cool drinking water. Consider freezing a mix of diluted stock and treats to make a cooling ice block. Bring your pets indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Fill up your bird baths with water or leave water outside for wildlife.
Hot Tips for Staying Cool(PDF, 1MB)