When the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issue a heat health alert, it’s time for everyone to take extra care in the warm weather. On this page you will find some useful advice on how to stay cool and safe during periods of warm weather.
When temperatures rise, ambulance services do often see an increase in 999 calls for help. Many of the risks of the heat are preventable, so we would ask everyone to be prepared and look out for each other.”
The main risks posed by a heatwave are heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dehydration and overheating which is particularly worse for those with underlying heart or breathing problems. A heatwave can affect anyone but the most vulnerable people are:
- Older people especially over 75 and female
- Those who live on their own or in a care home
- Individuals with serious long term illness or some mental health conditions
- Those who are on multiple medicines that may make them more likely to be affected by warm weather
- Babies and the very young, the bed bound or drug and alcohol addictions
- Those who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places like people who live in a top floor flat, the homeless or people whose jobs are outside or in warm working environments.”
Stay cool and hydrated
Do
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses when outside
- Wear light, loose clothing – cotton or linen are ideal in warm weather.
- Cool your skin with water
- Take it slow and avoid strenuous activity
- Stay in the shade outside, especially between 11am and 3pm when it’s the hottest
Do not
- Drink excessive amounts of alcohol as it has a dehydrating effect on the body
- Spend long periods in sun during the hottest part of day between 11am -3pm
Keep your environment cool
Do
- Close blinds / curtains in your home during the day to reduce the temperature
- Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down
- Stay in the coolest part of your home
- Use electric fans if the temperature is below 35 degrees
- If outside is cooler than your home, head outside to cool down
Travelling?
Do
- Take plenty of water with you or in your vehicle in case of disruptions to public transport, a vehicle breakdown or traffic delays.
- Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.
- Carry a refillable water bottle with you.
- Misting sprays or handheld fans can help to provide relief in warm weather.
Do not
- Leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
- Cover your baby’s pushchair or pram with a blanket because it could lead to overheating. Instead, attach a parasol or sunshade and keep them out of direct sunlight.
Be safe
Do
- Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke
- Check in on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours
Do not
- Swim in open water without a life-guard present. Open water poses unique hazards that are often underestimated. Natural bodies of water like lakes and rivers can be unpredictable and dangerous.