Older adults are more susceptible to prolonged extreme heat because of their health and mobility status.

There are a number of simple things that you can do to prevent the hot weather becoming a serious problem for you or family members, friends or neighbours.

Tips for coping with the heat:

Keep out of the heat

· Plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat

· Make sure you have enough food at home to last over the hot period

Stay cool

· If you can, stay inside, in the coolest room in your home

· Have an alternate way to cool your home in case the electricity fails

· Ensure there is enough air circulation, from a fan or an secured open window or door

· Take cool showers, splash yourself with cool water, put a damp cotton cloth on your neck

· Go to an air-conditioned building to cool off, e.g. the local library or shopping centre

· Stay indoors or in the shade during the hottest part of the day

· Recognise the signs of and symptoms of heat stress

· Ensure your pets or companion animals are also well hydrated and have plenty of shade

Stay hydrated

· Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty

· Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and sugary/fizzy drinks as they make dehydration worse

· Eat little and often rather than large meals; eat more cold food

Get help

· Talk to your family doctor about how extreme heat might affect a health condition you may have

· Talk to your carers, family or neighbors about what help they can provide to you during the hotter weather, such as drawing blinds or picking up shopping for you

The Australian Red Cross Hub at Narooma is located in Suite 4 at the Mid-town Narooma arcade opposite the Commonwealth Bank.

It facilitates and supports the operation of Red Cross services provided on the South Coast including Red Connect Personal Alarm Service, TeleCross, TeleChat, Community Visitors Scheme, Reach Your Potential and Good Start Breakfast Club.

Stop in for a chat and to say "hi"!