HeatTe wera

Extreme heat and heatwaves can impact everyone. Even small increases above average temperatures can harm people. Babies, older people and people with serious long-term health conditions are more at risk from heat.

In hot weather, it’s best to stay inside. You can reduce the impacts of heat by getting your home ready for extreme heat.

• Make sure your home is properly insulated. You can put weather stripping around doors and windows to keep cool air inside.
• If you have air conditioning, check ducts for proper insulation.
• Cover your windows. Hang shades or awnings to protect your windows from the sun.
• If you have an attic, you can install an attic fan. Fans can vent warm air out of your attic to keep your home cooler.

Make a plan with your whānau about staying safe in extreme heat. Everyone should know what to do at home, at school, at work or in the community. Some places do not have air conditioning and are not safe during extreme heat.

New Zealand sunlight can have high levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. UV radiation can cause skin and eye damage. The best way to protect yourself from UV radiation from sunlight is to Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap. Learn how to keep safe while still living life in the sun at sunsmart.org.nz.

In New Zealand, MetService issue heat alerts for extreme heat. Stay up to date with the latest temperature forecasts and alerts from MetService.

In hot weather, stay inside or in the shade. Limit physical activity and drink water.

There are things you can do to keep cool at home.

• Open your windows if there is a breeze. Keep your curtains or blinds closed.
• Have a cool shower.
• Wear loose, lightweight clothing.
• If your home is not humid, hang wet towels to cool down the air.

If you cannot keep your home cool, go to a public place that has air conditioning, such as a library or shopping mall.

Watch for signs of heat exposure:

• Heat rash
• Heat cramps
• Sunburn
• Heat exhaustion
• Heatstroke/sunstroke

Extreme heat can be serious and life threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if you see signs of heatstroke/sunstroke. St John has information on identifying and treating heat-related conditions at stjohn.org.nz.

Health New Zealand has more information about the effects of high heat on health and how to treat them at info.health.nz.

Check on your neighbours and anyone who might need your help.

Stay informed during extreme heat. Listen to the radio or follow your Civil Defence Emergency Management Group online. Follow the instructions of civil defence and emergency services.

Working in extreme heat can be dangerous. WorkSafe has information about working safely in extreme temperatures at worksafe.govt.nz.

Pets and other animals are at risk from extreme heat. Very young and older animals, and animals with short snouts, are more at risk.

Most animals do not sweat. They rely on panting, wetting down, shade, cool earth, and drinking water to stay cool. Animals cannot explain their needs, so it is up to you to take extra care of them during extreme heat.

• Check on your animals often.
• Make sure your animals are indoors or in the shade.
• Provide plenty of water for drinking as well as for cooling. Your animals may need twice as much water as normal.
• If you see signs of heat stress, call your veterinarian.