SWELTERING Cities, a new heat safety campaign is calling on people to check in on friends, family and other people who might be at risk this summer.
The health promotion organisation's Executive Director Emma Bacon said that heatwaves are Australia's deadliest environmental disaster and they're expected to get worse.
"Heatwaves aren't about just a day at the beach, they can be seriously dangerous, so it's important that we check in on people who might be at risk.
"Isolation can be deadly for the elderly, those who live in hot homes, people with disabilities and chronic illnesses, and others."
She added that the combination of hotter summers driven by climate change and a cost-of-living crisis means that more than ever people are worried about whether they can afford to keep their homes cool this year.
"We've heard from people across the country who are being forced to choose between air conditioning or essentials like food and petrol.
"Not only does isolation put people at risk during heatwaves, but heatwaves can also increase isolation," commented Bacon.
More than 45% of respondents in the national Sweltering Cities 2022 Summer Survey revealed that they avoided socialising on hot days.
"When it comes to heatwave advice, we're told to stay out of the sun, drink water, and check in on people," said Bacon.
"But who should we be checking in on, when should we do it, and what advice can we give?
"The safety campaign on 27 Jan is all about supporting others as easy as possible.
"It's time to call Nan, text your friend who lives in a hot home, or drop in on family who might be struggling to keep little kids cool on hot days," she added.
"This campaign is to make sure your community is safe by checking in as all it takes is a text, a call, or a knock on the door." JG
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