Stay Cool this Summer

With temperatures expected to rise over the summer period, it is important that everyone is prepared and knows how to respond should an extreme heat event occur.

The Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) defines a heat wave as a period of three or more consecutive days of high maximum and minimum temperatures, which are unusual for that location.

Heat waves are dangerous if the right precautions are not taken. Heat related illness may appear mild, but if left untreated can worsen and have the potential to become life threatening. 

Heat related illness may include:

• Dehydration – Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and avoiding alcohol or caffeine
• Heat cramps – Manage by drinking plenty of water, take a cool shower or bath, and rest
• Heat exhaustion – Manage by taking small sips of water, take a cool shower or bath, and rest.  Call 000 if symptoms persist
• Heat stroke – Call 000 if your body temperature is 40 degrees and above.

See the below resources for more information on preparing to manage heat stress:

• NSW Health - Heat is a health risk
• Australian Red Cross - Heat waves and hot weather
• RSPCA - Pet heat stress
• NSW Government - Heatwaves in NSW

Libraries

Our libraries are a great place to find a good book, movie, or CD, and are kept cool in the summer. Find library and museum locations here.
Pools

Visit our pools in Bexley and Botany this summer to stay cool using our indoor and outdoor swimming facilities.

• Angelo Anestis Aquatic Centre - 98C Preddys Rd, Bexley North
• Botany Aquatic Centre - corner of Myrtle Street and Jasmine Street, Botany. 

Check the Bureau of Meteorology's (BoM) weather forecast or listen to the weather report before heading to the beach or foreshore.

Avoid the hottest part of the day by going to the beach in the early morning or late afternoon, if extreme temperatures are forecast. Always stay hydrated, check on family, friends and neighbours, and consider staying home if it's safer.

Heat safety tips for the beach or park:

• Remember to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide
• Stay hydrated, bring plenty of water
• Find a cool place, stay in the shade
• Avoid the hottest part of the day
• Cool off regularly 
• Bring ice, you can wrap it up in a towel and place on the back of your neck
• Check the BoM for weather updates

In the event of a heat wave, or any extreme heat over summer it is important that we all do our part to keep everyone safe, so check in with family, friends, and neighbours.

Reach out to anyone who may need help. The most vulnerable include the elderly and very young, anyone living alone, people with a disability, and anyone who doesn't have air conditioning and/or no means to get to a cooler location like a shopping centre.