The weather has started to warm up which can add an additional layer of concern and risks to the health and wellbeing of people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

Finding a cool and safe place to rest and sleep, preventing food from spoiling and staying hydrated are just a few common challenges faced by people during prolonged periods of extreme heat. Advice from SA Health to help manage the summer heat include:
* Stop what you are doing, go to a cool, shaded place and lie down
* Drink plenty of water or other fluids, avoiding caffeine and alcohol
* Try to cool down with a fan or an air-conditioner, a cool damp towel around your neck, cool water sprayed on your skin or by having a cool shower or bath
* Use massage to ease any spasms or cramps, then use ice packs
* If you still feel unwell after taking these steps, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Please note, Toward Home partners have a number of facilities to help people to cool down, such as access to air conditioned centres, free water to encourage rehydration and/or referral to crisis services.

In prolonged periods of extreme heat, the South Australian Housing Authority will activate a Code Red, which launches additional supports including extended opening hours from agencies within the homelessness sector, including Toward Home Alliance partners.