Anyone can become unwell if they get too hot. However, some people are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell. It is important to follow this guidance so that you are prepared for hot weather and can take action to cool yourself and your home.
Actions you can take to stay safe in hot weather
While many people enjoy warmer summer weather, hot weather can cause some people to become unwell through overheating (becoming uncomfortably hot), dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
- keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- if you are going to do a physical activity (for example exercise or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler such as the morning or evening
- keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen
- drink plenty of fluids and limit your alcohol intake
- check on family, friends and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and if you are at higher risk, ask them to do the same for you
- know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them
For the latest weather reports we recommend the following links
Useful links
Age UK How to keep cool in a heatwave | Age UK
Gov UK Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Met Office Heat-health Alert service - Met Office
Met office Advice - Met Office
Gov UK Adverse Weather and Health Plan - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
