Survive the Heat: Safety Tips for Australians

Heat kills more Australians than any other natural disaster. With temperatures already soaring this spring, now is the time to prepare and protect vulnerable Australians, including seniors, people with disabilities, lone workers, and those with chronic conditions.

As we head into the end of October, Australia is experiencing unusually high heat across multiple states. Whether you're a senior, living with a chronic condition, working remotely, managing a disability, or simply living alone, rising heat is more than uncomfortable; it can be dangerous.



This is the time to rethink not just "What if I fall?" but "What if extreme heat strikes?" And what kind of support system is in place when it does?

What is a Heatwave?

A heatwave is a period of unusually and uncomfortably hot weather that can affect health, safety, and infrastructure. It can:

• Worsen chronic health conditions
  
• Increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke
  
• Lead to power outages, transport issues, and service disruption

Anyone can be affected, but some people are much more vulnerable.



Is the Heatwave Just a Blip or a Sign of What’s Ahead?

Meteorologists are reporting temperatures up to 15°C above average in many regions. The Bureau of Meteorology warns that extreme conditions are expected to continue into the summer months, with October to April now officially recognised as Australia’s “Higher-Risk Weather Season.”

What this means: These conditions are arriving earlier and lasting longer. This means traditional “safe periods” may be shrinking, especially for vulnerable groups.



Older adults

As people age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature. Older adults are more prone to dehydration, heat stress, and heatstroke, especially if they live alone or have existing health conditions.



People with disabilities

Those with mobility, sensory, or cognitive impairments may find it difficult to recognise the signs of heat illness or to take action quickly, such as moving to a cooler space or drinking water.



People with chronic conditions

Chronic illnesses such as heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and respiratory problems can be made worse by extreme heat and dehydration.



People taking medications that affect heat regulation

Certain medications can interfere with the body’s ability to sweat or regulate temperature. These include fluid tablets (diuretics), antidepressants, antipsychotics, heart medications, and allergy or cold medications. Always check with a doctor or pharmacist before hot weather begins.



Babies and young children

Children’s bodies heat up faster than adults’, and they rely on adults to keep them cool, hydrated, and shaded. They should never be left in cars or enclosed spaces.



Pregnant or breastfeeding women

Pregnancy increases the body’s workload, making it harder to manage heat. Dehydration can also affect milk supply and well-being for both mother and baby.

Lone workers or isolated individuals

People working alone or in remote environments may not have access to immediate support, cooling, or medical help during a heat event. INS LifeGuard’s monitored alarms and GPS tracking can provide vital backup in these situations.



People living alone

Those living alone are less likely to have someone notice early signs of heat distress. Regular check-ins from family, neighbours, or care services are essential.



Mental health clients

Conditions such as dementia, anxiety, or depression can impair decision-making and awareness. Individuals may forget to drink water, close blinds, or take steps to cool down.



Those affected by drug or alcohol use

Substance use can reduce the body’s ability to respond to heat and can cause dehydration, increasing the risk of heat-related illness.



Outdoor workers or physically active people

Anyone working, exercising, or spending long periods outdoors is at high risk of dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly if they are not drinking enough fluids or taking regular breaks in the shade.



What You Can Do

Survive the Heat

• Drink Water – Even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Hot Cars Kill – Never leave kids, pets, or anyone in a parked car.
• Keep Cool – Use air conditioning, draw blinds, use fans, take cool showers.
• Plan Ahead – Avoid outings during the hottest part of the day.
• Help Others – Check on vulnerable people who may struggle in the heat.

Heat Wave Safety for Seniors

• Wear the right clothing – Light, breathable, and sun-safe.
• Apply sunscreen often – Protect from sunburn and overheating.
• Drink plenty of fluids – Stay hydrated, especially with medications.
• Stay indoors as much as possible – Especially during peak sun.
• Wear eye protection – Sunglasses with UV protection.
• Keep a check on your medications – Some increase heat sensitivity.



Signs of Heat-Related Illness

Mild to moderate symptoms:

• Headaches, dizziness, or nausea
  
• Muscle cramps or weakness
  
• Rapid heart rate
  
• Vomiting or feeling faint
  
  

Severe or life-threatening signs:

• Confusion, delirium, or stroke-like symptoms
  
• Dry, red, hot skin with no sweating
  
• Seizures or collapse
  
• Rapid heartbeat or loss of consciousness
  
  

Call 000 or press your INS LifeGuard personal alarm immediately if you notice these signs.

Heatwaves and Medications

Some medications increase your risk during hot weather. These include:

• Diuretics (fluid tablets)
  
• Beta-blockers and blood pressure medications
  
• Antidepressants and antipsychotics
  
• Antihistamines and cold/allergy medications
  
• Seizure medications (anticonvulsants)
  
• Digoxin and heart-related medications

Speak with your doctor if you’re unsure whether your medications put you at greater risk during a heatwave.

Preventing and Managing Dehydration

• Drink water regularly — don’t wait until you’re thirsty
  
• Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and sugary drinks
  
• Use electrolyte drinks after sweating heavily
  
• Stay cool: fans, cool showers, air-conditioned areas
  
• Wear light, loose clothing
• Monitor urine — dark or reduced urine indicates dehydration



Heat Safety Tips

• Stay indoors during peak heat (11 am–4 pm)
  
• Block sunlight with blinds or awnings
  
• Plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening
  
• Cool your body with wet cloths, fans, or foot baths
  
• Wear a wide-brim hat, SPF 50+, and UV sunglasses
  
• Check in on elderly neighbours, friends, or family
  
  

If your home is too hot, consider visiting a shopping centre, library, or community space with air-conditioning.