Published on Wednesday, 14 December 2022 at 3:05:33 PM

A new heatwave warning system is now available for WA, alongside consumer information on how to stay safe before, during and after a heatwave.

The new system will align with bushfire warning messaging to provide consistency and clarity for Western Australians. Heatwave alerts in WA will be broadcast on the Emergency WA website, ABC Radio and Social Media.

There will typically be up to 4 days warning leading up to a heatwave.

The alert system will direct affected community members to health advice on the HealthyWA website.

Heatwaves can occur in any location.

Heatwaves occur when the minimum and maximum temperatures are much hotter than usual for three or more days at a location.

The heatwave warning system gives you information on how extreme a heatwave is once it has been forecast by the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) (external link) .

Heatwave alerts have three warning levels indicating the increasing risk to your health. It is important to stay up-to-date with relevant alerts to help you prepare for and lessen the impact of extreme heat.

When high temperatures become dangerous, stay safe by:

• Avoiding exercise and outdoor work in the hottest part of the day
• If you must go out, wearing a hat and sunscreen and taking sufficient water with you
• Taking shelter in a cool place
• If available, using fans or air-conditioners to keep cool
• Drinking water frequently (unless your doctor normally limits your fluids)
• Checking in regularly with elderly neighbours and other vulnerable people
• Providing shelter and plenty of cool water for pets and other animals
• Never leaving a person or pet in a vehicle
• Avoiding travelling in the hottest part of the day where possible.

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