That’s the advice from the Bureau of Meteorology as Australia’s eastern states brace themselves for a heatwave.

The conditions we saw in Perth for the third Ashes test have made their way across the continent and temperatures are expected to top the high thirties and low forties over the next few days.

In Bega, a top of 31 is expected today, with 43 forecast for tomorrow.

In Batemans Bay, the forecast is for 31 degrees for Thursday and 36 for Friday, while Nowra residents can expect 32 degrees today followed by a scorching 42 on Friday.

The elderly and very young may be especially vulnerable to high temperatures and people are asked to be especially conscious of their welfare.

Owners of pets and other animals are also advised to ensure shade and water are available where possible.

These conditions also increase the prospect of fire danger locally. There is a high fire danger (see details below) for today and tomorrow in the Shoalhaven and South Coast areas.

While that does not include a total fire ban, people are asked to be mindful of the conditions and exercise caution in activities that might cause a fire.

Forecasts for the South Coast are for a cooler Saturday (top of 23 in Merimbula, Kiama 25), a warmer Sunday.