With unusually warm weather becoming more and more common it is vital that we understand how to stay safe in this environment. So in this blog, we will cover some top tips to help you beat the heat this summer!
Top Tips
Most of us in the UK love to see hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long, there can be health risks. In England, there are on average 2000 heat-related deaths every year. If hot weather hits this summer, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know.
Top tips for staying safe in hot weather include:
- 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, make sure to check if they need any assistance and if they do, help them immediately.
- drink plenty of fluids and avoid drinking excess alcohol
- make sure you take lots of water with you if you are travelling
- stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
- check medicines can be stored according to the instructions written on the packaging
- avoid too much physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
- check that your fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
- try to keep out of the sun between 11 am to 3 pm When the sun is highest the UV rays are strongest
- If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
- take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down
The government has released its own few blogs on how to cope with hot weather here
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.
