How to keep cool and stay hydrated

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Hot weather can affect anyone, particularly during prolonged periods of extreme heat. Staying hydrated and keeping cool can help reduce your risk of heat-related illness.

If you or someone else feels unwell during hot weather, move to a cool place and drink water.

If symptoms do not improve, call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for advice from a registered nurse or speak with your healthcare provider.

Stay hydrated

Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.

Aim to drink around 2–3 litres of water a day unless your healthcare provider has advised you to limit your fluid intake.

You can also help your body stay hydrated by:

  • eating regular meals, including fruit and salads
  • drinking oral rehydration solutions if needed to replace fluids and body salts
  • limiting alcohol and drinks high in caffeine or sugar, which can contribute to dehydration.

Keep your body cool

Spend as much time as possible in cool or air-conditioned places, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Wear loose, lightweight clothing, take cool showers or baths and rest in the shade if you need to be outdoors.

Avoid strenuous exercise or physical work between 11 am and 3 pm if possible.

Never leave children, older people, people with disability or animals in parked vehicles, even for a short time.

Keep your home as cool as possible

Small changes around your home can make a big difference during hot weather.

During the day:

  • close blinds or curtains to block direct sunlight
  • keep windows closed while it's cooler inside than outside
  • use fans or air conditioning if available.

In the evening, once the outside temperature has dropped, open windows and doors to allow cooler air to circulate through your home.

If you don't have air conditioning, consider spending time in an air-conditioned public place such as a library, shopping centre or community facility.

Prepare for hot weather

Preparing before hot weather can help you stay safe.

You can prepare by:

  • getting air conditioners and fans serviced
  • stocking up on food, medicines and other essential supplies
  • speaking with your doctor if you have a medical condition that may be affected by hot weather
  • planning to check on family, friends and neighbours who may need extra support.

Protect your pets and animals

Animals can also become seriously unwell in hot weather.

Make sure animals always have:

  • plenty of fresh drinking water
  • access to shade or a cool, well-ventilated shelter
  • protection from hot surfaces such as concrete or bitumen.

Never leave animals unattended in a parked vehicle.

For more guidance follow the RSPCA's advice about how to keep your pets cool and safe and how heatstroke can affect your pet.

Additional heatwave and hot weather resources

Last updated:
4 August 2026