Warm weather can be enjoyable, but when temperatures rise it can also affect our health. Older people, babies and young children, people with long-term health conditions, people who live alone, and anyone who may find it harder to keep cool can be more at risk during hot weather.
If you’re worried about someone who may need medical help or if they have signs of heatstroke, such as confusion, fast breathing, a seizure, loss of consciousness or very hot skin, call 999 straight away.
Here’s a few simple steps to help you stay well, keep your home cooler and look out for others.
How to cool down
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Water is best.
Try to avoid too much alcohol, caffeine or hot drinks, as these can make dehydration worse.
Stay out of direct sun where possible, especially between 11am and 3pm.
Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, a hat and sunglasses if you need to go outside.
Use cool water on your skin or clothes, take a cool shower, or place a damp cloth on the back of your neck.
Plan any exercise, gardening or dog walking for early morning or later in the evening when it is cooler.
How to keep your home cool
Close curtains or blinds in rooms that face the sun.
Keep windows closed during the hottest part of the day if it is warmer outside than inside.
Open windows in the early morning or evening when the air outside is cooler.
Try to spend time in the coolest room in your home, especially during the afternoon.
Limit use of ovens, hobs and other appliances that create extra heat.
If you use a fan, make sure it is safe, stable and not left where someone could trip over the cable.
Looking after elderly or vulnerable people
If you have an older relative, neighbour or friend, or know someone who may struggle in the heat, please check in on them. A quick call or knock on the door can make a real difference.
Ask if they have enough food, water and any medication they need.
Encourage them to stay in the coolest part of their home.
Remind them to drink regularly and avoid going out during the hottest part of the day.
Check that curtains or blinds are closed in sunny rooms.
If they seem confused, very tired, dizzy, sick, breathless or unusually unwell, help them get medical advice.
Signs someone may be struggling in the heat
Heat exhaustion can happen when the body gets too hot. Signs can include tiredness, dizziness, headache, feeling sick, heavy sweating, cramps, thirst, or feeling faint.
Move the person to a cooler place, remove unnecessary clothing, give them water to drink and cool their skin with water or a damp cloth. If they do not feel better after around 30 minutes, seek medical advice through NHS 111.
If someone has signs of heatstroke, such as confusion, fast breathing, a seizure, loss of consciousness or very hot skin, call 999 straight away.
What support is available
If you’re worried about your health or someone else’s health during hot weather, contact NHS 111 for advice. In an emergency, or if someone shows signs of heatstroke, call 999.
For more health advice and information, visit the NHS website: Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather - NHS
You can also look out for local weather warnings and heat-health alerts, so you know when to take extra care.
Keeping pets cool too
Make sure pets always have access to fresh water and shade.
Never leave pets in cars, caravans or outbuildings in warm weather.
Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when it is cooler.
Check pavements before walking dogs. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.
Use damp towels for pets to lie on, but do not cover them with damp towels as this can trap heat.
Look out for signs of heatstroke in pets, including heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, weakness, wobbling or collapse. Contact a vet straight away if you are worried.
For further advice and support visit: Animal Welfare Advice for Summer - RSPCA - rspca.org.uk