Staying cool - heatwave advice

Hot weather can increase the risk of some health conditions. Older people, babies and young children are more likely to be unwell from hot weather because their bodies are less able to regulate temperature. People with underlying medical conditions can also be vulnerable to the effects of hot weather. 

Follow our heatwave advice during the hot weather to keep you and your loved ones well. And remember, anyone can become unwell if they get too hot. 

Keep cool

• keep out of the sun during the hottest parts of the day, between 11.00am and 3.00pm, March to October
• avoid energetic outdoor physical exercise on very hot days and try to exercise in the cooler parts of the day (morning and evening)
• wear loose fitting, light coloured clothing
• wear a sun hat and sunglasses and stay in the shade if going outside
• use sunscreen (at least factor 30) to protect your skin
• drink plenty of water and limit alcohol intake, take water with you when you leave the house
• watch out for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and know what to do when you or someone else has these
• listen to the news and check your local Met Office weather forecast so that you know when hot weather is expected
• give yourself a break from the heat if you get too hot
• avoid hot closed spaces such as cars as these get hot quickly - never leave a child, anyone vulnerable or animals in a hot closed car
• continue to use medication as prescribed

Stay safe when swimming

Swimming pools, rivers, lakes, or the sea can be a fun way to cool down when the weather is hot, however summer months are also associated with an increase in drowning accidents. See our water safety advice for information on the dangers of cold water and staying safe in open water.

Keep your home cool

Before hot weather

Check:

• windows and vents can be opened
• that the central heating system can be turned off
• that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
• medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging

During hot weather

• shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight
• take a break from the heat by moving to a cooler part of the house (especially for sleeping)
• consider going outside into the shade or to a public building that may be cooler
• open windows where it is safe to do so, when the air feels cooler outside than inside, for example, at night (remember the loft window is a good option)
• try to get air flowing through the home
• check that central heating is turned off and turn off lights and electrical equipment that are not in use

Look after vulnerable people

• children cannot control their body temperature as well as adults because they don't sweat as much
• look after elderly or vulnerable friends and neighbours and if you are worried about someone call Social Care Direct
• look out for signs of NHS: dehydration and NHS: heat exhaustion and heatstroke in those who are more vulnerable

For more information on how to stay safe in hot weather, call NHS 111 or visit NHS Choices: heatwave advice.