Heatwave: Stay Safe and Healthy in Hot Weather

Warm weather can be enjoyable, but extreme heat can pose serious health risks. During a heatwave, more people than usual become seriously ill or die from heat-related conditions. Taking simple precautions can help protect you, your family, and those around you.

Why Are Heatwaves Dangerous?

Prolonged hot weather can lead to several health problems, including:

• Dehydration caused by not drinking enough fluids.
• Overheating, which can worsen existing heart or respiratory conditions.
• Heat exhaustion and heatstroke, both of which require prompt attention.

Who Is Most at Risk?

Although anyone can be affected by extreme heat, some groups are particularly vulnerable:

• Older adults, especially those aged 65 and over.
• Babies and young children aged 5 years and under.
• Pregnant women.
• People with long-term health conditions, including heart disease, respiratory illnesses, diabetes, kidney disease, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, mobility issues, mental health conditions, or drug and alcohol dependency.
• People living alone who may struggle to care for themselves.
• Individuals taking multiple medications or medicines that increase sensitivity to heat.
• People who are already unwell or dehydrated due to illnesses such as diarrhoea or vomiting.
• Those who are homeless or spend long periods outdoors, especially people who are physically active, such as runners, cyclists, walkers, or manual labourers.

How to Stay Safe During a Heatwave

Stay Out of the Heat

• Avoid direct sunlight whenever possible, especially between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm.
• Stay in shaded areas when outdoors.
• Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Apply sunscreen regularly.
• Avoid strenuous exercise or activities that can raise your body temperature.

Keep Your Body Cool

• Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic fluids throughout the day.
• Choose cold meals and refreshing drinks.
• Limit alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and hot drinks, as they can contribute to dehydration.
• Take a cool shower or bath, or use cool water on your skin and clothing to lower your body temperature.

Keep Your Home Cool

• Close windows, curtains, and blinds during the hottest part of the day.
• Open windows at night when the outdoor temperature has dropped.
• Use electric fans if the indoor temperature is below 35°C, as fans become less effective in higher temperatures.

Look After Others

• Monitor the temperature in rooms where vulnerable people live or sleep.
• Check regularly on elderly neighbours, relatives, friends, or anyone who may be at higher risk during hot weather.

Recognise Heat-Related Illness

If you or someone else develops a high temperature or feels unwell during hot weather, it could be heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Seek medical advice promptly if symptoms worsen or do not improve, as heatstroke is a medical emergency.

Where to Get Help

For official guidance on staying safe during periods of extreme heat, visit GOV.UK – Heat.

If excessive heat in your home is affecting your health or someone else’s, contact your local council’s Environmental Health team. They can inspect rented properties for health hazards, including excessive indoor heat.

Stay informed, stay hydrated, and help protect those most vulnerable during periods of hot weather.

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