Victoria is currently experiencing a rare heatwave, bringing heightened risks of heat-related illness. Heat kills more Australians than any other natural disaster, and extreme temperatures can affect anyone, though some groups are more vulnerable.

Who is at Risk?

People most at risk include:

Adults over 65 years

Infants and young children

Pregnant and breastfeeding women

People with acute or chronic health conditions, including kidney or lung disease

People who are overweight, obese, or have low cardiovascular fitness

Socially isolated individuals

Those not acclimatised to hot weather

Health Risks and Symptoms

Extreme heat can trigger serious and potentially life-threatening conditions:

Dehydration: Thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, reduced or dark urine. Action: Go to a cool area and drink fluids.

Heat exhaustion: Sweating, pale skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, fainting. Action: Seek advice from Nurse-on-Call (1300 60 60 24), visit a GP, contact Virtual Emergency Care, or call 000 if needed.

Heatstroke: High body temperature, dry skin, confusion, loss of consciousness. Action: Call 000 immediately—this is life-threatening.

Tips to Stay Safe

Keep Cool

Use air conditioning, fans, or spend time in cool public spaces.

Wear light, loose clothing and keep skin damp.

Take cool showers or use damp towels/ice packs around the neck.

Block heat from entering your home; open windows only if cooler outside.

Stay Hydrated

Drink water regularly, even before feeling thirsty.

Take a water bottle whenever leaving home.

Plan Ahead

Schedule outdoor activities 

Monitor heatwave warnings via the Bureau of Meteorology app or website.

Check in on family, friends, and neighbours, especially those at higher risk.

Prepare for power outages: have torches, charged devices, non-perishable food, medications, drinking water, and a cool-box for ice or medication storage.

For Health Professionals

Clinicians, particularly in general practice, emergency departments, and pharmacies, play a key role in preventing and managing heat-related illness.

Extreme heat affects the body to regulate temperature.

Sweating is the main way the body loses heat, but can be impaired by humidity, excess fat, skin conditions, or clothing layers.

Some medications may increase risk of heat illness, or become less effective or toxic if stored at high temperatures.

Special Note: People in fire-affected areas who have lost homes but remain on their properties should take extra care, seek support from local government, 

https://www.health.vic.gov.au/

(Source: Victorian Department of Health)