Australian summers are hard on outdoor workers, visitors and kids. Heat, sun, snakes and storms all ramp up from December to March. The right signs remind people to drink water, cover up and know where help is. Here's our guide to summer safety signs for worksites, farms, schools, parks and pools.
1. Heat stress
Heat illness can come on quickly on construction sites, in warehouses and on farms. A sign at the crib room, water station and site entry keeps it front of mind.
- Heat stress alert: drink water, rest in shade, look out for your mates
- Drink water regularly, heat stress area
- Drinking water refill station
Safe Work Australia publishes guidance on managing the risks of working in heat. Signs support your plan but don't replace it.
2. Water you shouldn't drink
Thirsty people will drink from any tap. Mark non-drinking water clearly.
Our backflow and water service signs guide covers more water signs.
3. Sun protection
- Sunscreen for site entries, pools and outdoor areas
- Children must bring a hat for outdoor play for schools and childcare centres. See our school and childcare signs checklist.
4. Snakes
Snakes are most active in the warmer months, especially around long grass, sheds and creek lines.
More rural warnings are in our farm and rural warning signs guide.
5. First aid
- First aid kit located (your location)
- First aid officer with name and phone number
- Emergency shower and eyewash station
See our first aid and AED signs guide.
6. Pools, water and storms
Pools and waterways are busiest in summer. Pool clears at first sign of lightning suits public and strata pools. See our pool safety signs guide and water safety signs guide.
7. Bushfire season
Summer is also bushfire season. Our bushfire season signs guide covers static water supply, total fire ban and fire danger signs.
Material tips
Outdoor signs face strong UV, so choose aluminium for long life. Corflute is fine for temporary summer messages on site fences. See how to choose the right sign material.
Frequently asked questions
Where should I put heat stress signs?
Common spots are the site entry, crib room, water stations and work areas exposed to direct sun.
Can I add my own phone number to the snake sign?
Yes. The snake sighting sign lets you enter your own number.
Will my signs arrive before Christmas?
Every sign is made to order. Order by Wednesday 16 December (NSW, VIC, QLD, SA) or Wednesday 9 December (WA, NT) for delivery before Christmas. Every sign is 30% off until 31 December, and shipping is free on orders over $500.
Looking for something else? Browse every guide in our Sign Guide Library.