It is important to understand the impact of heat related illnesses. Babies, young children, frail older adults and people with disability or chronic medical conditions are particularly vulnerable in hot weather.

A fact sheet (PDF 779kb) for coping with extreme hot weather has been developed by the Red Cross.

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of heatwaves in Victoria. International and Australian experiences show that heatwaves are known to increase the incidence of illness and death – particularly among vulnerable community members.

Council is in the process of developing a Heatwave Strategy which will be included in Council's Emergency Management Planning in 2010.