Extreme Heat Awareness Day

Rising temperatures and prolonged heatwaves are becoming more frequent, posing serious health and safety risks to individuals, families, and communities.

We’re teaming up with Sweltering Cities, organisations, experts, and other across Australia to launch the first-ever Australian Extreme Heat Awareness Day on 5 February 2025.

Extreme Heat Awareness Day is aimed at raising national awareness about the rising temperatures and the growing threat of extreme heat across the country. While hot days are often synonymous with fun and celebrations, heatwaves and hot weather cause more deaths in Australia than bushfires, cyclones and any other hazard. It's important to adapt your activities and have a plan to keep cool and look after yourself this summer.

By understanding the risks and impacts of extreme heat—and sharing this knowledge with friends, family, and your community—we can take proactive steps to protect ourselves, our loved ones, and those most at risk.

How you can take action

• Download the heatwave fact sheet: Learn how to prepare for extreme heat.
• Download and share the Heatwave Awareness poster
• Take the Heatwave Quiz: Test your heat preparedness knowledge and learn how to better protect yourself and your loved ones.
• Practical Tips: Access essential information on how to keep cool, recognise the signs of heat-related illness, and support those most at risk.

Simple steps you can take to prepare

• Get in the know: Speak to your GP about how heatwaves may affect you and download the Bureau of Meteorology app for reliable weather forecasts and warnings.
• Get connected: Build support networks with neighbours, family, and friends, plan for heatwave safety together, and identify a cool place to go if needed during extreme heat.
• Get organised: Plan for heatwave safety together, and identify a cool place to go if needed during extreme heat.
• Get packing: Consider what essentials you may need at home, or to take with you in a heatwave.

Australian Red Cross has been helping communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters for over 110 years. With innovative programs, expert knowledge, and a network of trained, trauma-informed volunteers, we deliver practical support and help to build more resilient communities.