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Perth residents are sweltering through 37 degree temperatures as they prepare to welcome the New Year, but there's worse to come on the first day of 2009, the weather bureau says.
As police geared up for the thousands of revellers expected in Fremantle, Northbridge and the beachside suburbs of Cottesloe and Scarborough, they issued pleas for people to act responsibly through the heat.
"Our message to the community this year is have a good time by all means but do so responsibly," said Assistant Commissioner Dominic Staltari.
"Be tolerant, be patient, respect yourself, respect others and we'll all get along."
Mr Staltari said six rapid response crews would be on standby to deal with any incidents as they arose.
In the Perth entertainment centre of Northbridge, three stages have been set up to cater to all ages and musical preferences.
The entertainment begins at 9.30pm and Transperth will be running extra services on the night to help patrons get home.
Those who want a close-up view of fireworks will have to pay to attend the New Year's Eve display at the city's Gloucester Park venue.
On New Year's Day, the weather bureau predicts the temperature will soar to 39C, before cooling down slightly to 37C on Friday.
