Extreme heat can be dangerous, especially for older people, young children, pregnant women, people with ongoing health conditions, and pets.

While Bayside has a low bushfire risk, heatwaves can increase fire activity in other parts of Greater Sydney. Smoke from these fires can affect air quality and harm health, particularly for people with asthma or heart and lung conditions.

Heat-related illness

Extreme heat can be dangerous. Know the signs and act quickly:
 

• Dehydration: Thirst, dry mouth, fatigue and dark urine – drink water regularly and avoid alcohol and caffeine.
• Heat cramps: Painful muscle spasms in the legs, arms or abdomen – stop activity, rest, hydrate and cool down.
• Heat exhaustion: Heavy sweating, cool clammy skin, dizziness, nausea and fatigue – move to a cool place, sip water and rest; call 000 if symptoms worsen.
• Heat stroke: Body temperature above 40°C, hot dry skin, confusion or unconsciousness – all 000 immediately.

During extreme heat, check on others, especially older people, young children, people living alone, those without air conditioning or with health conditions, and pets.

Heat Safety

Before going out, check the forecast. On very hot days, plan activities for early morning or late afternoon and stay indoors if possible.

Simple tips:

• Slip - Slip on protective clothing - Wear long-sleeved shirts, collars, and clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
• Slop - Slop on sunscreen - Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen on exposed skin, and reapply regularly.
• Slap - Slap on a hat - Wear a broad-brim, bucket, or legionnaire-style hat to protect your face, ears, and neck.
• Seek - Seek shade - Stay under trees, umbrellas, or shelters, especially during peak UV times.
• Slide - Slide on Sunglasses - Wear close-fitting sunglasses that meet Australian UV protection standards.

Be a good neighbour

During extreme heat, check on others, especially older people, young children, people living alone, those without air conditioning or with health conditions, and pets.

Cool Spaces in Bayside

When the temperature rises, Bayside’s Cool Spaces are here to help you chill out, stay safe and stay connected.

What is a Cool Space?

A Cool Space is an air-conditioned public area where you can relax, recharge, and escape the summer heat. You’ll find free access to drinking water, toilets, power points, comfy seating and even some relaxing activities - everything you need to keep cool during extreme weather.

Cool Off Locations in Bayside

Bayside Libraries

Our libraries are a great place to cool down while enjoying a book, movie or some quiet time. All libraries are air-conditioned. Find library locations here.

Pools 

Visit our pool in Bexley this summer to stay cool using our indoor and outdoor swimming facilities. 
Location: 1 Angelo Anestis Aquatic Centre - 98C Preddys Rd, Bexley North 2207 - View on map

Mobile Cooling Hub

During warmer months and periods of extreme heat, Bayside Council operates a mobile cooling hub that can be set up in public and community spaces across the area. The hub provides shade, seating and drinking water, offering a cool place to rest for those most affected by hot conditions, including older residents, families with young children and those spending time outdoors. The cooling hub also operates at community events and forms part of Council's broader commitment to reducing heat impacts and supporting community wellbeing over summer.

How to make a Cool Room

Instead of cooling your entire home, considering turning the coolest room in your home into a dedicated cool room by:

• Blocking out all-natural sunlight and use minimal lighting. 
• Seal gaps under doors and around windows. 
• Use an electric fan and air condition as needed.
• Consume plenty of cold water and food. 
• Use ice packs or cool, damp cloths for additional relief.
• Sit back and relax

Additional Resources to Stay Cool

• Find out when there's a heat wave using The Bureau of Meteorology
• Download Hazard Near Me app