The Department of Housing is encouraging public housing tenants to check on each other during hot weather this summer.
Director General Grahame Searle said the advice is in line with previous information provided on the Department’s website, quarterly tenants’ newsletter and letters to over 55s living alone in the Perth metropolitan area and the Wheatbelt.
“We are always concerned about seniors living alone or those socially isolated and people from backgrounds who may have limited understanding of the health implications,” Mr Searle said.
“I strongly encourage tenants, family members, neighbours and other members of the public to make contact with the elderly, the unwell, the very young and anyone they feel may need some assistance.
“It is extremely important if our tenants require urgent maintenance to restore essential services such as power, water and gas, they call Housing Direct immediately on 1300 137 677, as this is a 24/7 service.”
Mr Searle advised tenants, family members and neighbours to take extra care, drink lots of water, and if unwell due to heat stress seek medical attention.
“If people are feeling unwell they can call healthdirect Australia 24 hours a day on 1800 022 222, call their doctor or in an emergency call 000,” Mr Searle said.
The effects of heat stress can range from mild symptoms such as a rash or cramps and if untreated can lead to heat stroke.
Mr Searle said the Department is a support agency under the Department of Health’s emergency management plan Westplan – Heatwave.
Any serious or urgent concerns about a person’s welfare should be referred to the WA Police on 131 444.
The Australian Red Cross offers a service that provides the elderly and housebound with a reassuring daily phone call to ensure that they are safe and well. For more visit
Red Cross website or call 1300 885 698.
Media Contact: Ben Jones
T: 08 9222 4946 M: 0477 760 678
Available for interview: Steve Parry, General Manager - Service Delivery
Fact file:
- Visit the Department of Health website for the latest announcements and advice about hot weather.
- Extreme heat events are likely to become increasingly common in Western Australia as a result of climate change.
- The Healthy WA website has useful advice and information on how to cope during hot weather.
Tips to avoid heat stress:
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Try to stay inside with a fan or air conditioner on.
- If you have to go outside, go in the early morning or late evening and stay in the shade.
- Wear light coloured, loose clothing and take a hat to wear outside.
- Always use plenty of sunscreen.
- Don’t do a lot of exercise outside when it is very hot.
- To help you sleep, use a water spray mister on your face and body.
- Keep taking any regular medicine even if you feel unwell because of the heat.
Symptoms of heat stress may include:
- Increased heart rate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness and feeling faint
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps and weakness
- Urinating less often.