Heat Vulnerability

The Shire of Bridgetown-Greenbushes has been selected as one of three pilot sites within Western Australia to participate in a 'Heat Vulnerability Project'.

With funding received from WA Council of Social Service (WACOSS) as part of the National Disaster Risk Reduction Program, this project aims to increase WA communities' resilience to disasters through enhanced preparedness for, reduced exposure to, and minimisation of the effects of one or more natural hazards. Our Shire was chosen for this program due to its current aging population and high hospitalisation rates during a heatwave. Heatwaves cause more death and illnesses than any other disaster.

Visit the Bureau of Meteorology's Heatwave Explainer for more information on the risks of heatwaves and how they are classified.

HEAT INTERVENTIONS

In consultation with our community, the Shire has identified the following interventions to help mitigate the risks of extreme heat:

  • Installation of a shade sail at the Bridgetown Leisure Centre between the two pools to increase shaded areas for users
  • Installation of two drinking water fountains, complete with bottle filler and dog bowl - one located at the Bridgetown Memorial Park and another in Greenbushes
  • Planting of extra shade trees at Somme Creek Parklands, adjacent to the Bridgetown Youth Precinct
  • Development of open 'Cooling Spaces' at the Bridgetown Library, Bridgetown CRC and Bridgetown Hub, including volunteer training
  • Expansion of our current Fire Bans and Emergency warning system to include potential heatwave warnings
  • Ongoing community education and communication via social and print media
  • Distribution of 'Cooling Packs' to vulnerable community members

These interventions will be implemented over the 2024/25 spring/summer period and continue into the future.

WHAT YOU CAN DO

You can register for the 'Heatwave' SMS service by contacting the Shire's Customer Service desk on 9761 0800. By registering for this service, a text message will be sent to your mobile phone warning you of an impending heatwave event.

You can register for 'Wellness Check-in' calls during a heatwave event by emailing your name and contact number, along with details of an emergency contact person, to btnshire@bridgetown.wa.gov.au. A trained volunteer will contact you to ensure you are managing the high heat conditions during a heatwave.

You can create your own 'HEAT ACTION PLAN' (similar to a fire plan) to ensure you are prepared for very hot conditions.

Know the signs!

Signs of Heat Stress can include:

  • Tiredness and lethargy
  • Headaches 
  • Dizziness and feeling faint
  • Muscle cramping
  • Excessive thirst and reduced urination

Signs of Heat Stroke can include:

  • Confusion and incoherent speech
  • Unsteady on feet
  • Coma or seizure

If you or someone you know is experiencing Heat Stroke - call 000 immediately.

You can also download the Heat Vulnerability Projects' STAYING COOL & HEALTHY info sheet for extra tips on how to keep cool in a heatwave. We recommend you save or print this for easy access.

OTHER HELPFUL LINKS

Healthy WA - Be Prepared for Extreme Heat

BOM - Heatwave Warnings

This project acknowledges the funding contribution of the Commonwealth Government and support from the WA State Emergency Management Committee