Whilst warmer summer days can be beautiful it’s also worth a reminder that high temperatures and humidity can present a risk to our health. Here are some helpful tips on how to stay safe when it’s hot.
Out and about
- Try to avoid being outside at the hottest time of the day (11am-3pm) and, where possible, keep in the shade.
- Carry a bottle of water with you when you go out and about and wear a sun hat.
- Look after your skin – use a sun cream of at least SPF15 and apply it regularly and cover all exposed skin.
- Wear light loose clothing.
- Be careful, even when it’s not sunny. UV levels can still be harmful when it’s cloudy.
- Protect your eyes with UV protecting sunglasses.
At home
- Keep blinds down or curtains closed (especially in rooms you’re not using) and close windows.
- To cool yourself down try a damp cloth or a splash of water on the back of your neck.
- Wear light-coloured, lightweight cotton clothing to keep you cooler.
- Check how you’re storing any medication when it gets particularly hot. It might be best to keep them in the fridge.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid getting dehydrated and eat even if you’re not feeling too hungry.
Be extra careful
- Watch out for signs of dehydration – confusion, cramps, dark urine and feeling weak. You don’t have to feel thirsty to be dehydrated.
- Be careful to avoid heat exhaustion – the symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea and a fast pulse. If you feel unwell, lie down in a cool room, drink plenty of water and cool yourself with a splash of water.
- Heat exhaustion could lead to heatstroke. Symptoms include falling unconscious and seizures. Call 999 immediately if you think you or someone might have heatstroke.
- If you think you might struggle, ask someone to check on you. Also, check on someone else you think might struggle in the heat.
In case of emergency dial 999