We welcome residents and visitors to our libraries and community spaces during extreme heat, to get out of the sun and into some cool air conditioning.

Library Locations and Opening Hours

Community Spaces and Opening Hours

Are you prepared for the heat?

Before a Heatwave occurs:

• Check cooling systems to ensure they are working effectively. Clean filters and air vents and make sure your air conditioners are set to cool.
• Have a chat with a neighbours, relatives and friends to keep in contact during extreme heat. Make sure you exchange phone numbers with them.
• Make sure you have supplies of food and other items you use regularly to last up to a week so you do not have to go out in the heat unless absolutely necessary.
• Don’t forget your pets as they can be particularly vulnerable to the heat. Make sure they have shade and plenty of cool water and make sure you have a week’s supply of food for them.

During a heatwave:

• Keep out of the heat as much as possible.
• Carry a bottle of water if you leave the house, wear a hat or take an umbrella and wear sunscreen.
• Have plenty of cold water in the fridge.
• Draw blinds and curtains to keep out the heat during the day
• Take a cool shower or bath to cool yourself down when you feel hot. If this is not possible use a wet flannel or towel to wipe yourself down.
• Avoid eating salty foods.
• Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose fitting cotton clothing which helps your body maintain a normal temperature.
• Avoid drinking alcohol, tea or coffee as they can make dehydration worse. You should drink 2 to 3 litres of water a day even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Eat frequent small meals.
• Avoid going out between 11am and 3pm.

Call 000 for all life-threatening emergencies. Contact your local GP if you are concerned about your health in hot weather.

Keep your pets cool

Make sure all pets have access to cool drinking water and shade. Keep play and exercise to a minimum. Walk your dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun has gone down, so they don't burn their paws. Small pets like bunnies are vulnerable to heat stress.

Red Cross

The Red Cross in conjunction with the South Australian government, has developed the TeleCross REDi service to support vulnerable members of the community during a heatwave or other extreme weather event. This free service provides clients with support phone calls up to three times a day during extreme weather. For unanswered calls or if the person is showing signs of distress, an emergency response will be activated. TeleCross REDi registrations can be made by phone, by yourself, a care, doctor, family member or friend.

To contact TeleCross REDi call 1800 188 071 (free call) between 10am and 5pm weekdays.

For more information on this service or to become a TeleCross REDi volunteer: TeleCross REDi Caller