- — Open windows at night to clear hot air out and close windows and doors early before the sun is up to retain cool air inside.
- — Blockout curtains and blinds covering windows during the day keep heat out of the house. This is especially effective for windows that are exposed to sun for many hours or at the hottest time of the day.
- — Sitting in front of an electric fan will keep you cool, even if the house is warm. It is vital to drink extra water to prevent dehydration.
- — Wetting your skin will cool you down and prevent dehydration. Dipping your feet in water can also keep you cooler; make sure your feet and the floor are dry afterwards to prevent slipping accidents.
- — Wearing wet clothes can cool you down without needing to sweat. Wet your clothes about once an hour to keep your body temperature down.
- —Avoid caffeine and alcohol and aim to drink a small cup of cool water (200mL) every 15 to 20 minutes. Cool rather than cold water is best to avoid stomach cramps.
- —if you're planning exercise you should hydrate in advance. Victoria Health says you should drink at least half a litre of fluids 2 hours before exercising and then around 200 ml every 20 minutes or so while working out.
- —Have a look at the colour of your urine when using the toilet. A light shade indicates you're hydrated, while darker urine means you need to drink more water.
- — Protect yourself outside. If you need to be in the sun, wear a shirt, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Sunburn will affect your body's ability to cope with the heat.
- —If you don't have air conditioning at home, spend the day somewhere like a library, cinema or shopping centre. If you have an air conditioner at home, make sure it has been serviced and has clean filters.
- — Heatwaves pose the greatest risk to elderly, pregnant and very young people. People who are fit and well can also be affected, so remind the very active people in your life not to over-exercise during the warmest part of the day.
- — Provide plenty of shade and enough water to last the entire day. Putting ice cubes in their bowl will help keep water cool for longer. Check on them regularly. If you live in an area with a lot of wildlife, you can leave shallow dishes of water around your property.