Hot weather can be stressful on your body and make you feel really tired. It may take a few days to fully recover after a heatwave.
Looking after yourself and checking on others
- Get your body back in balance. Keep drinking plenty of water.
- Cool your house down. If you've had your home shut up to keep the heat out, open it up again when the change comes through, and let it cool down.
- Rest. It's common to feel tired during and after hot weather but if you are feeling unwell you should see a doctor.
- Check in with loved ones. Get in touch with family and friends, particularly those who are vulnerable and see if they need help.
- Plan for next time. Think about whether there are things you could have done differently to stay cool, this may help you cope better next time it's hot.
Looking after your pets and garden
- Monitor your animals. If you think they are suffering from heat stroke, apply cool water to their fur/skin and seek vet help.
- Top up water dishes for wildlife. Particularly if there's no rain forecast.
- Be careful around trees — they often drop limbs when it is hot.
- Water your garden. Take note of the plants that have fared badly and the ones that have managed in the hot weather.
This video from Gardening Australia may give you some ideas to help protect your garden the next time you have hot and dry weather.
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