What is a heatwave?
A heatwave is defined by the Bureau of Meteorology as three or more consecutive days of unusually high maximum and minimum temperatures for a given location.
Understanding the Risks of Queensland Heatwaves
Heatwaves can pose serious risks, particularly to vulnerable members of our community. It’s important to check in on those who may be affected, including but not limited to:
- Babies and young children
- The elderly
- Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers
- Individuals with medical conditions like asthma or those on certain medications
- Pets
One simple way to help keep your home cooler is by investing in quality security screens. Security doors and screens allow you to keep doors and windows open for ventilation without compromising security. Security doors help reduce indoor temperatures by ventilating your home creating a safer, more comfortable environment during extreme heat.
How to stay safe during extreme heat
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- Keep ice and cool packs stored in your fridge or freezer.
- Use spray bottles with cool water to mist your face and body.
- Shield windows from the sun using security screens.
- Create cooler spaces by opening windows to allow cross-ventilation.
While heatwaves may not always be seen as major threats, they are among the harshest weather events. Extreme heat contributes to over 1,000 fatalities annually. According to the Australian Disaster Resilience Hub, heatwaves have caused more fatalities in Australia since 1890 than bushfires, cyclones, earthquakes, floods, and severe storms combined.
Staying informed and prepared can help reduce the risks associated with extreme heat. Take action now to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your community.
Keep an eye on the BOM weather warnings to stay up to date and check in on vulnerable members of your community to help create a safer place, at your place.
