Summer safety: Cool tips to beat the heat

The first heatwave of summer hit before Christmas this year, and it’s unlikely to be the last for the season.

Extreme heat can be more deadly than fires or floods, but as it’s invisible, the toll often goes unnoticed.

Heatwaves are graded by their intensity – low, severe or extreme.

Most people can cope during low-intensity summer heatwaves, however, severe heatwaves are challenging for vulnerable populations.

Pregnant women, the elderly and outdoor workers can all be more susceptible to the effects of hot weather.

Wollongong City Council’s environment planning manager Isabelle Ghetti said the council adopted an urban heat strategy in 2023 to help the community cope in the heat.

She said the most important first step was to increase awareness of the risks, so people could be prepared.

“When you see formal notifications from the Bureau of Meteorology, those are a trigger to think about your health and put measures in place,” she said.

“Avoid being outdoors during the hottest part of the day; use air-conditioning if it’s available, an avoid using the stove or oven, as they warm the home.

“If you don’t have air-conditioning you can open up the house in the coolest part of the day and then close it up before the temperature rises to trap cool air inside.

“Have a cold shower or cool your skin with a damp cloth.

“Drink plenty of water, stay hydrated, and be aware of the signs of heatstroke.”

For those who don’t have air-conditioning at home Isabelle said the council maintains cool public spaces anyone can access for free.

These include libraries, pools and youth centres.

If you don’t mind spending a few bucks, retail therapy in an air-conditioned mall or going to see the latest release in an air-conditioned movie theatre can provide respite.

There are long-term ways to make your home cooler too, even if you rent.

Installing reflective window coverings can help keep it cooler indoors, as well as sealing any gaps and using awnings or blinds.

Planting a potted vertical garden in front of windows can reduce the amount of heat that gets in, improve privacy, and if you plant tomatoes or cucumbers, they can be a source of food, too.

Keep ice and a cooler box ready just in case the power goes out.

Be aware of the signs of heat-related illness.

Heatstroke is the most severe heat-related illness. It can cause permanent disability or death if left untreated. A very high body temperature, confusion, slurred speech and muscle twitching or seizures are signs to seek medical attention immediately.

Heat exhaustion is less severe, but still serious. Pale skin, headache, nausea, diziness, weakness, irritability, thirst and muscle cramps are all signs to get somewhere cool and drink plenty of fluid immediately. If symptoms don’t improve, seek medical attention immediately.

The council is also looking at ways to cool our urban landscape, from tiny forests to urban greening and smart infrastructure.

“As soon as you walk under the tree canopy you can feel the difference in temperature,” Isabelle said.

“Compared to a man-made structure like a shade cloth you can feel the difference in humidity and airflow.

“We are also reviewing some controls for new developments so they are better placed to manage heat.

“For example, we would ask new developments to consider the way they are orientated and how they are designed to allow cool air space.

“We are working hard on mitigating our greenhouse gas emissions as well, to limit the impact and how hot it’s going to get in future.”