Summer preparedness
Summer is here – and with hot weather already upon us, it’s important to support patients in staying safe and healthy. This is a good time to check in with vulnerable patients and remind them about practical steps for managing heat.
Supporting patients in hot weather
Hot conditions can lead to dehydration and overheating, particularly for elderly patients and babies and children aged 0–5.
Encourage patients to have a heat plan in place and discuss strategies to reduce risk during extreme heat.
Consider discussing:
Whether their air conditioners, fans, refrigerators and freezers are working properly.
Safe food and medicine storage during hot weather, especially during and after a power outage.
The importance of having contact details for people who can assist if needed.
Staying connected with family, friends and neighbours during hot weather.
Contact information for their general practice, pharmacy or Healthdirect.
How chronic conditions and regular medications may be affected by heat.
Local places to get relief from the heat:
Air-conditioned public buildings such as libraries or shopping centres.
Parks with plenty of vegetation and shade.
Food safety advice for patients
Hot weather can cause food to spoil quickly, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.
When discussing food safety, remind patients to:
Store food that needs refrigeration properly.
Defrost frozen foods in the fridge, not on the kitchen bench.
Clean food preparation areas after use to remove pathogens.
Avoid overcrowding the fridge with leftovers, as this can affect temperature and increase spoilage risk.
Medication storage advice
Most medications should be stored below 25°C.
Only store medications in the refrigerator if the label says so, or if advised by a doctor or pharmacist.
If patients need to go out in hot weather, suggest taking only the medication required and planning how to keep it cool and dry.
Encourage patients to check with a pharmacist if unsure about correct storage.