Heatwave Advice

Following the latest Met Office heat wave alert, NHS England is continuing to remind people to be aware of the health risks of hot weather.

Our top tips are:

1. try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
2. if you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat
3. avoid physical exertion
4. wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
5. drink plenty of cold drinks
6. if you have a health problem, keep medicines below 25 °C or in the refrigerator
7. look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses
8. never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals

Remember that it can get uncomfortably hot indoors too. Try to keep your bedroom and living space cool, by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening your windows at cooler times of the day and overnight when safe to do so. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat.

Health and social care workers in the community, hospitals and care homes are advised to regularly check on vulnerable patients, share sun safety messages, make sure room temperatures are set below 26 °C, ensure patients have access to cold water and ice and that medicines are stored in a cool place.