Heatwave Prep Basics
Practical guidance to prepare your home, family, and gear for Australian heatwaves
Australia experiences some of the world’s most dangerous heatwaves, which kill more people than any other natural hazard in the country. Heatwaves can cause power outages, strain hospitals, increase bushfire risk, and pose life‑threatening dangers — especially when hot nights prevent the body from cooling down. Preparation saves lives.
🟦 1. Know Your Heatwave Risk
Heatwaves are defined as 3+ days of unusually high maximum and minimum temperatures compared to local climate averages. [bom.gov.au]
BOM classifies heatwaves into three levels:
- Low‑intensity – most people can cope
- Severe – dangerous for vulnerable people
- Extreme – dangerous for everyone without protective steps [bom.gov.au]
Official heatwave information:
- BOM Heatwave Warnings & Maps — https://www.bom.gov.au (warnings issued up to 4 days ahead) [bom.gov.au]
- Australian Red Cross – Extreme Heat Safety — https://www.redcross.org.au/extremeheat/ [redcross.org.au]
- RACV Heatwave Safety (Victoria) — https://www.racv.com.au/royalauto/news/weather/summer-heatwave-safety-and-tips-to-keep-cool.html [racv.com.au]
🟩 2. Prepare Your Home Before Heatwave Season
✔ Keep your home cool
- Close blinds/curtains to block incoming heat. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
- Use air‑conditioning or fans early in the day. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
- Avoid using ovens/stoves that heat the house. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
✔ Improve airflow & insulation
- Seal gaps around windows/doors.
- Install shade cloths or external awnings.
✔ Prepare for power outages
Heatwaves frequently lead to blackouts. Make sure to:
- Charge power banks and devices. [melbournefoe.org.au]
- Freeze ice blocks and store wet towels in the fridge for cooling. [melbournefoe.org.au]
- Have battery‑powered fans and lights available.
✔ Stock up early
- Food and medicines so you don’t need to leave home in peak heat. [melbournefoe.org.au]
- Extra water for drinking and cooling.
✔ Know your local Cool Zones
- Check council heatwave plans for air‑conditioned community spaces. [melbournefoe.org.au]
🔥 3. Heatwave Health Awareness
Heatwaves can cause:
- Heat exhaustion & heatstroke (life‑threatening) [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
- Worsening of heart, kidney, and lung conditions [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
- Reduced cognitive function, fatigue, dehydration, and sudden medical events like stroke or heart attack. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
Most at risk: older adults, babies, pregnant women, people with chronic illness, outdoor workers, socially isolated individuals, and those without cooling. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
Humidity increases danger, as sweat evaporates less effectively, raising heat stress risk. [apers.com.au]
🎒 4. Heatwave Survival Kit (PrepPro Version)
Cooling essentials
- Battery-powered fan
- Spray bottle for misting (keeps skin cool) [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
- Ice packs / frozen water bottles
- Lightweight, loose clothing
Power & communication
- Power banks
- Spare batteries
- AM/FM battery radio
Hydration & health
- 3–5 days of water
- Electrolyte sachets
- First-aid kit
- Essential medications (stocked before heat arrives) [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
Home & safety
- Wet towels stored in fridge (for rapid cooling) [melbournefoe.org.au]
- Torch/headlamp
- Thermometer (to monitor indoor temps)
- Important documents in a waterproof pouch
🐾 Pet essentials
- Ample water and shade
- Travel carriers
- Cooling mats or damp towels
🚨 5. Heatwave Warnings & What to Do
✔ Monitor official warnings
- BOM Heatwave Alerts — https://www.bom.gov.au [bom.gov.au]
- State health alerts (Vic, NSW, QLD etc.)
- ABC Radio: official emergency broadcaster
✔ Check on vulnerable people
Family, neighbours, co‑workers — especially those living alone. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
✔ If you must go outside
- Go early in the morning or after sunset.
- Always carry water. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
- Spend time in air‑conditioned public places if needed. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
✔ Never leave children or pets in vehicles
Cars become deadly within minutes. [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
🟥 6. Last‑Minute Actions (If Safe to Do So)
Before temperatures peak:
- Hydrate early and often (before you feel thirsty). [betterheal...vic.gov.au]
- Close blinds/curtains and windows during the day, open windows at night if cool.
- Move bedding to cooler rooms.
- Fill water bottles, tubs, and containers.
- Ensure pets have shaded areas and multiple water bowls.
If a power outage occurs:
- Use wet towels, spray bottles, and ice. [apers.com.au]
- Avoid exertion — heat illness can escalate quickly.
- Go to air‑conditioned public spaces if safe to travel.
🟫 7. After a Heatwave
✔ Check yourself and others for signs of heat illness.
✔ Continue hydrating — effects can linger.
✔ Inspect home for heat damage (electrical, roofing, vehicles).
✔ Check on elderly neighbours and pets.
✔ Review what worked and update your heatwave plan. [racv.com.au]
⚠️ Heatwave Survival Disclaimer
This guide provides general preparedness information. Always follow instructions and official warnings from local and state authorities, including the Bureau of Meteorology and your state health department.