Hot weather can affect our health, especially for older people, young children and those with long-term conditions.
With planning and awareness, it’s possible to stay safe and well in the heat. The tips below can help you stay cool and protect your health.
⛱️ Avoid the midday sun – stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day. If you need to go out, wear a hat and use SPF 30+ suncream.
💧 Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water and try to avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can contribute to dehydration.
🧢 Dress light – wear light-coloured, breathable clothing to help your body stay cool.
🏠 Keep your home cool – keep windows and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day, and open them when it’s cooler outside.
🚿 Cool your skin – use damp cloths, splash water on your skin, or take a cool shower.
🌡️ Know the signs of overheating – symptoms like dizziness, confusion or muscle cramps can indicate heat-related illness. If you notice these, rest, cool down and hydrate and seek medical attention if your symptoms do not improve.
💊 Check your medications – some medications increase sensitivity to heat, so speak to your pharmacist if you are unsure whether this applies to you.
🤝 Check on others – look our for friends, family, neighbours, and anyone who may be more vulnerable. Ask someone to check in on you if needed.
People who may be more affected by hot weather include:
- Those aged over 65 and young children
- People living alone or in care settings
- Those managing long-term health conditions
- People taking medications which affect body temperature regulation or heat sensitivity
- Those with reduced mobility
- Those who spend long periods outdoors
You can find more advice – including easy read materials and British Sign Language videos at Beat the heat: hot weather advice.
