Preparing for a heat wave

We welcome residents and visitors to our library during extreme heat to get out of the sun and into some cooling air conditioning.

Library location and opening hours.

Are you prepared for the heat?

Before a heatwave occurs:

• 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 or relative/close friend to keep in contact with you during extreme heat. Make sure you exchange phone numbers with them.
• Make sure you have supplies of food and other items you use regularly to last up to a week so you do not have to go out in the heat unless absolutely necessary.
• Don’t forget your pets as they can be particularly vulnerable to the heat. Make sure they have shade and plenty of cool water and that you have a week’s supply of food for them.

During a heatwave:

• Keep out of the heat as much as possible.
• Carry a bottle of water if you leave the house and wear a hat or take an umbrella and wear sunscreen.
• Have plenty of cold water in the fridge.
• Draw blinds and curtains to keep out the heat during the day.
• Take a cool shower or bath to cool yourself down when you feel hot. If this is not possible use a wet flannel or towel to wipe yourself down.
• Avoid eating salty foods.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose fitting cotton clothing which helps your body maintain a normal temperature.
• Avoid drinking alcohol, tea or coffee as they can make dehydration worse.  You should drink two to three litres of water a day even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Eat frequent small meals.
• Avoid going out between 11am and 3pm.

In an emergency contact your local GP.

Life threatening emergencies phone 000.

Animals and heat

Make sure all animals have access to cool drinking water and shade. Keep play and exercise to minimum and don't walk your dogs until after the sun has gone down so they don't burn their paws on hot surfaces. Small pets like bunnies are also particularly susceptible to heat stress. More tips for keeping your pets safe in the heat can be found on the Animal Welfare League website.

Red Cross

The Red Cross, in conjunction with the South Australian Government, has developed the TeleCross REDi service to support vulnerable members of the community during a heatwave or other extreme weather event. This free service provides clients with support phone calls up to three times a day during extreme weather. For unanswered calls, or if the person is showing signs of distress, an emergency response will be activated. TeleCross REDi registrations can be made by phone, by yourself, a care, doctor, family member or friend.

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