Heatwave Advice

Hot weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable patients.

Please find guidance on supporting vulnerable people before and during a heatwave: for care home managers and staff here

Further information on the Heat Health Watch and Heatwave can be found here; https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/heat-health/?tab=heatHealth&season=normal

The Heatwave Plan and summary of Heat Health Watch Actions can be found here:https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/heatwave-plan-for-england

For general advice to find out more about how to cope in hot weather click here

Heatwave Risks

The main risks posed by a heatwave are: 

• not drinking enough water (dehydration) 
• overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing
• heat exhaustion and heatstroke

Tips for coping in hot weather

• look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
• stay cool indoors (especially between 11am and 3pm when UV rays are the strongest)– many of us will need to stay safe at home this summer so know how to keep your home cool, the NHS recommends these actions you can take to try and stay cool
• close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
• if going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately
• drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
• never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
• walk in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• avoid exercising in the hottest parts of the day
• make sure you take water with you, when travelling
• if you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice
• Remember that if coronavirus restrictions are in place, you will need to follow government guidance to use public spaces safely

For more information visit GOV.UK: Heatwave Plan for England or NHS: How to Cope in Hot Weather

If you have concerns about an uncomfortably hot house that’s affecting your health or someone else’s, get medical advice.

You can also get help from the environmental health office at your local authority. They can inspect a home for hazards to health, including excess heat.

Find your local authority

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke

These are the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you spot them in yourself or other people.

During this period of extreme heat we need to look out for our residents, our colleagues and ourselves:

• Please look out for anyone who may find it more difficult to stay cool and hydrated and keep an eye on people you know to be at risk.
• If you or others get dizzy, feel unwell or have an intense thirst, move to a cool place to rehydrate and cool down.
• Stay cool indoors between 11am and 3pm when UV rays are strongest. The NHS recommends these actions you can take to try and stay cool.
• Shade or cover windows and keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day.
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
• Never leave anyone in a closed parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
• Parents are also being encouraged to limit their children’s exposure to the sun.
• Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat.
• Avoid exercising in the hottest parts of the day.
• Make sure you take water with you when travelling.
• If you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice.

More details about the weather alert is available on the MET Office website.