Extreme temperature (heat and cold)
Extreme temperature (heat and cold) emergencies are rated as a high risk for the Surf Coast. Extreme heat and heat waves can affect anybody and cause significant health problems. You should plan ahead to reduce your risk.
The Emergency Management Commissioner leads the response to this type of emergency. The Department of Health provides advice on how to prepare for extreme temperatures.
Why is extreme temperature a risk?
Heatwaves are sometimes called the silent killer because, over time, they've caused more deaths in Australia than any other natural hazard - even though they rarely make headlines the way a fire or flood does.
A heatwave is three or more days in a row of hotter than usual day and night temperatures, and climate change means we are seeing more of them. The lack of overnight cooling is what makes heatwaves dangerous, because bodies and buildings don't get a chance to cool down.
Heatwaves can strain the power grid, causing brownouts and sometimes damaging infrastructure like rail tracks. They can put food safety at risk too, if refrigeration fails during a power outage.
Extreme cold is also risky, especially for people who are frail or can't keep warm, such as older people and babies.
Who and what is most at risk?
- People aged over 65 or under 4, pregnant people, and anyone with a chronic illness - they have a higher risk of heatstroke
- People who can't afford to run air conditioning, or who live in poorly insulated housing
- Outdoor workers and people exercising in hot conditions
- Health and ambulance services, which see a spike in demand during heat events
What you can do
- Stay out of the heat, cancel or reschedule outdoor activities, and stay hydrated.
- Consider going to cooler or air conditioned places such as cinemas, libraries, indoor pools or shopping centres.
- Check on family, friends and neighbours, particularly if you know they are likely to be at increased risk.
The Department of Health and the Better Health Channel provide information on planning for extreme heat and heat waves. You can also subscribe to heat health warnings from the Department of Health.
Event organisers should plan for hot weather to help keep participants, staff and workers safe, and can get advice through Council's event planning pathway.