During hot weather, food can spoil more quickly and become unsafe to eat. Bacteria and other pathogens can grow and spread easily at room temperature.
Eating contaminated food can make you very unwell. Depending on the cause, symptoms may include diarrhoea, vomiting, fever, aches and pains, and can sometimes be fatal.
To keep your food safe during hot weather:
Visit the Food Authority of NSW website for more information about keeping food safe during hot weather and to view their handy checklist about safe food preparation.
For information on food safety in the event of a power outage see Staying safe and healthy during extended power outages.
For information on managing medications in the event of a power outage see Staying safe and healthy during extended power outages.
If a power failure affects your refrigerator or freezer there is a risk that some foods and medicines may become unsafe.
If you experience a power outage, make note of the time the power failed and keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.
For more information visit our Staying safe and healthy during extended power outages page.
It can be useful to keep a torch, radio (and batteries) and a first-aid kit handy.
The strain of heat exposure, including disrupted sleep, can be felt after the hot weather has passed.
For health information and advice 24 hours a day, 7 days a week phone healthdirect on 1800 022 222.