Keeping your cool this summer

WITH summer approaching, Geelong and Surf Coast residents are being given a helping hand to better prepare for and cope with heatwaves.
The Summer Heatwaves and Sustainability program is offering residents practical and independent information on how to stay cool in summer through free in-home visits, phone consultations and local community workshops.
Participants are also given tips on how to save money on their energy and water bills.
The project is a partnership between the City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast Shire and welfare organisation Kildonan UnitingCare and is funded with the support of the Victorian Government under the Victorian Adaptation and Sustainability Partnership.
Kildonan Chief Executive Officer, Stella Avramopoulos, said it was important that people looked out for each other during the warmer months.
“The elderly and people experiencing illness are particularly vulnerable during extremely hot weather, so I’m urging people to check up on their relatives and neighbours when the temperature soars,” she said.
“Make sure they have enough food, water and medicines so they don’t have to go out in the heat and ensure they have a torch and a telephone that will work without electricity in case a heatwave causes a power blackout.”
The Summer Heatwaves and Sustainability Project also provides information on a number of simple measures that can help people save money on energy bills during summer.
Recommendations include:
* Using fans rather than air-conditioners.
* If using an air-conditioner, make sure the filter is clean and the fan is on high.
* Cool rooms to 24-26 degrees celsius.
* Close all external doors and windows during the day and open them overnight when the air cools.
* Seal draughts and gaps in the home.
* Install external shading on windows exposed to sun.
“The key is to plan ahead, and make sure you’re armed with all the information you need for you and your family to stay safe and comfortable before a heatwave occurs,” Ms Avramopoulos said.
To arrange a home visit or for more information, phone the Summer Heatwaves and Sustainability Project on 1800 545 366 or email heatwaves@kildonan.org.au