Extreme weather, transport incidents and public health emergencies can occur with little warning. This page provides essential information on heatwaves, earthquakes, rail incidents, and human pandemics including COVID-19.
For information on other hazards, visit planning for a bushfire and storms.
Heatwaves
A heatwave occurs when unusually high maximum and minimum temperatures persist for several days. Extreme heat can affect anyone, but older people, infants, people with chronic illness and outdoor workers are especially vulnerable.
Stay indoors where possible and keep your home cool.
Drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Check on vulnerable neighbours, family and friends.
Provide shade and plenty of water for pets and animals.
HealthyWA: Heatwave advice and preparation.
HealthDirect (24/7 health advice): Call 1800 022 222.
Emergency WA: Heatwave alerts and when to take action.
Australian Warning System: National heatwave warning information.
Bureau of Meteorology: Weather forecasts and heatwave outlooks.
Animal welfare in heatwave and emergencies (provided by DPIRD).
Call 000 for life-threatening emergencies.
Earthquakes
Earthquakes can occur without warning. Western Australia experiences frequent seismic activity. While most tremors are minor, larger earthquakes can damage buildings, roads and essential services.
While the City does not provide technical earthquake safety instructions, it is important to be aware of your risks and have a basic plan in place. Trusted emergency agencies recommend:
Learning how to prepare an earthquake plan for your household (via DFES).
Staying alert to official warnings and updates.
Knowing who to contact for help.
Securing heavy items in your home if you live in an earthquake-prone area.
DFES: For guidance on preparing for, staying safe during, and recovering after an earthquake.
Emergency WA: Up to date earthquake alerts and incident information.
ABC Radio 102.5FM: Official emergency broadcasting channel.
- Earthquakes@GA map: Real-time map showing recent earthquakes.
- Geoscience Australia: National seismic activity and research.
Key contacts
000: life-threatening emergencies.
SES: 132 500.
DFES Information Line: 13 3337.
Geoscience Australia (within Australia): 1800 655 739.
Rail crashes
Serious rail accidents are rare, but when they occur, emergency services coordinate the response. Advice, alerts and transport disruptions are published by the State Government.
Transperth: Service alerts and updates.
Emergency WA: Up to date alerts and incident information.
Local news and ABC Radio Perth (102.5FM).
If a rail incident threatens public safety, always follow instructions from emergency services.
Human pandemics
Public health emergencies, including pandemics, are managed by the WA Department of Health and the Australian Government. The City follows this advice and may adjust services based on current health directions.
HealthyWA: Local health alerts, clinics and prevention advice
WA Department of Health: Advice and updates on Covid-19
- Australian Government: National pandemic and COVID-19 information.
City of Wanneroo libraries can assist residents who need help accessing health information or downloading vaccination certificates. Printing charges may apply.
Call 000 for life-threatening emergencies.
State Emergency Service: Call 132 500.
National health advice line: Call 1800 020 080.
HealthDirect: Call 1800 022 222.
