Preparing for a heatwave

Learn how to prepare for and stay safe during a heatwave, find air-conditioned public cool spaces, and access helpful resources to support you before and during extreme heat.

How to prepare for a heatwave:

  • Check cooling systems to ensure they are working effectively. Clean filters and air vents and make sure your air conditioner/s are set to cool.
  • Have a chat with a neighbour, relative or close friend who can keep in contact with you during extreme heat. Make sure you exchange phone numbers.
  • Make sure you have enough supplies of food and other essential items (including medications and pet food) to last up to a week, so you do not have to go out in the heat unless absolutely necessary.
  • Ensure you have a plan in place should there be a power outage. Refer to SA Power Networks preparing your power outage plan for more information.
  • Put together a small emergency kit, including a torch, batteries, a first aid kit and a list of important telephone numbers.

What to do during a heatwave:

  • Avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day as much as possible.
  • Keep hydrated and drink plenty of fluids. It’s best to drink water and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
  • Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting cotton clothing to help your body maintain a normal temperature.
  • If you leave the house, carry a bottle of water, wear a hat or take an umbrella, and apply sunscreen.
  • Keep blinds and curtains closed during the day to help keep out the heat.
  • Take a cool shower or bath to cool yourself down. If this is not possible, use a wet flannel or towel to wipe yourself down.
  • Don’t forget your pets, as they can be particularly vulnerable to heat. Make sure they have shade and plenty of cool water.
  • Visit an air-conditioned public cool space if you need relief from the heat.

Additional information on staying safe in the heat

Access to public cool spaces through AdaptWest

To help our community stay safe and comfortable during hot weather, the City of West Torrens, together with the cities of Charles Sturt and Port Adelaide Enfield, has partnered through AdaptWest.

As part of this initiative, several air-conditioned public cool spaces, including the West Torrens Library, are available across the AdaptWest region. These spaces provide a place to escape the heat during hot days.

Visit a cool space near you and keep cool this summer.

Staying safe and healthy in the heat

More tips on staying safe and healthy during very hot weather are available on the SA Health website.

If you are feeling unwell, contact your local GP. 

For life-threatening emergencies, phone triple zero (000).

Support for vulnerable community members via Red Cross

Red Cross, in conjunction with the South Australian Government, offers the TeleCross REDi service to support vulnerable members of the community during a heatwave or other extreme weather events.

This free service provides support phone calls up to three times a day during extreme weather. If a call goes unanswered, or if the person is showing signs of distress, an emergency response will be activated.

TeleCross REDi registrations can be made by phone by the individual, a carer, doctor, family member or friend.

To contact TeleCross REDi call 1800 188 071 (free call) between 10am and 5pm, weekdays.

Caring for animals in the heat

Make sure all animals have access to cool drinking water and shade. Keep play and exercise to a minimum and avoid walking dogs until after the sun has gone down so their paws do not burn on hot surfaces.

Small pets, such as rabbits, are also particularly susceptible to heat stress.

For more tips on keeping your pets safe during hot weather, visit the Animal Welfare League website or refer to our tips for caring for your pets.

Where heat builds up in our city

Learn more about  Urban Heat Mapping and view our Urban Heat and Tree Mapping Viewer to identify streets and suburbs in West Torrens where heat builds up during hot weather. You can also explore ways to cool your property and help reduce these hotspots.

 

Other useful resources

  • SA Health
    Stay safe and healthy during very hot weather (information available in a range of translated languages).
  • ABC Emergency
    Stay informed about official warnings and emergencies, including heatwaves.
Back to top