Weather like this is something many people look forward to and go out and enjoy. But it’s worth remembering that sunny spells can pose health risks for some people. It’s important to protect yourself and others from too much sun or heat, to carry water when travelling and to think of those, such as young children or older people, who may feel the heat more acutely than others.

  1. Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
  2. Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
  3. Use cool spaces if going outdoors.
  4. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
  5. Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, vulnerable adults, or animals.
  6. Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
  7. If you have to go outside in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
  8. Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day.
  9. Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling.
  10. During warm weather, going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief. If you are going into open water to cool-down, take care and follow local safety advice.

The following links may be useful:

The NHS website has lots of useful information.

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/#risk

The Met Office website has up to date weather forecasts.

metoffice.gov.uk

The DEFRA Daily Air Quality Information website uk-air.defra.gov.uk contains information on both air pollution and UKHSA’s real-time UV measurement data

https://uk-air.defra.gov.uk/data/uv-index-graphs

For more information follow #BeattheHeat.