Older people at the beach laughing and enjoying themselves

Dealing with extreme heat

Some people may experience the effects of hot weather more than others, so it’s important to know what these effects are, who is at risk and what you can do.

Published: 12 January 2023
  • tas
  • 12 January 2023
  • Tasmanian Government Department of Health

Who is at risk during extreme heat?

Everyone is potentially at risk during extremely hot weather, but some people have a higher risk of becoming ill than others, including:

  • Older people, particularly the frail or over 65

  • Pregnant women, babies and young children

  • People who live on their own or who don’t live close to other people

  • People who work outdoors, or who are physically active

  • People with a physical disability

  • People with a serious chronic condition (heart problems, breathing problems, diabetes, mental illness, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease or those who are very overweight)

  • People taking certain types of medications, including those affecting sweating and body temperature

  • People with a high temperature from an existing infection

It is very important that those at higher risk take extra care of themselves during hot weather. It is also important that family, friends and neighbours of those at higher risk keep in contact with these people regularly to make sure they are coping with the extreme heat.