Tips and resources to stay safe and healthy during summer in Sydney.
Summer in NSW is a time for sunny adventures, festive celebrations and other outdoor activities. But extreme hot weather also brings some health and safety risks for our community.
Extreme heat can cause heatstroke and heat exhaustion. Some people are more vulnerable to these conditions than others, such as babies and children, the elderly, pregnant women and those with pre-existing illnesses.
On those scorching summer days, remember to:
- stay cool and drink water
- enjoy outdoor activities in the cooler parts of the day
- keep your home cool by closing curtains and blinds and using a fan or aircon
- check in on your friends and family, especially those at higher risk
Checklist to prepare for the heat
There are things you can do now to prepare for hot weather and other hazardous summer weather, like storms. To help you and your loved ones stay safe, you might want to:
- check that your air conditioners, fans, fridges and freezers are working properly
- make sure you have ice packs and ice cubes in the freezer
- book a doctor’s appointment to chat about how you can best manage your medical condition in the heat
- get an emergency kit ready
- make a list of vulnerable friends and family members who you’d like to check in on during a heatwave
- create an emergency plan that you can print and share with loved ones – we recommend using the Get Prepared app which was created by the Australian Red Cross and NRMA Insurance
- download the Hazards Near Me app to stay up to date about local emergencies
- know the warning signs
Follow SES preparedness tips by maintaining your yard and balcony, cleaning gutters and drains, trimming trees, checking insurance policies, and listening to local weather warnings.
Home too hot?
If you’re struggling to keep your home at a comfortable temperature, here are some air-conditioned places you can go:
- Stanton Library
- your local community centre
- museum, art gallery, cinema or shopping centre
- the home of a friend or family member
Other summer health risks
NSW Health is also warning the community to be aware of other hazards that can arise during summer and affect our health and safety.
These include bushfires and bushfire smoke, mosquito-borne diseases like Japanese Encephalitis Virus, the ongoing risks of COVID-19 and travel-related health risks. Mental health issues can also intensify during the holidays, especially if you’re experiencing financial pressures or social isolation. Head to the NSW Health website for more information.
If you need medical advice over summer and your usual doctor isn't available, you can call healthdirect anytime day or night, for free, on 1800 022 222 and get the help you need.