Hot Weather Health Advice

The UK is currently experiencing a period of hot weather. While many people enjoy the sunshine, high temperatures can pose health risks, particularly for older adults, babies and young children, pregnant women, and people with long-term health conditions.

Staying Safe in Hot Weather

To reduce your risk of becoming unwell during hot weather:

Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty.
Avoid excessive alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
Stay out of direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and a hat when outdoors.
Apply sunscreen regularly and seek shade whenever possible.
Keep your home cool by closing curtains or blinds in rooms that face the sun.
Reduce strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours of the day.
Check regularly on elderly relatives, friends and neighbours, particularly those who live alone.

Recognising Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include:

Headache
Dizziness or feeling faint
Excessive sweating
Muscle cramps
Feeling sick
Fast breathing or heartbeat
Extreme tiredness

If you or someone else develops symptoms of heat exhaustion, move to a cool place, drink plenty of water or a sports drink, loosen tight clothing and cool the skin with water or a damp cloth. Most people should start to feel better within 30 minutes.

When to Seek Urgent Medical Help

Call 999 if someone:

Remains unwell after 30 minutes of cooling measures
Has a very high temperature
Stops sweating despite being hot
Becomes confused, drowsy or unconscious
Has a seizure (fit)

These may be signs of heatstroke, which is a medical emergency.

Further Information

For more information and practical advice on staying safe during periods of hot weather, please visit the UK Health Security Agency's Beat the Heat resources:

https://www.gov.uk/beat-the-heat

Thank you for helping to keep yourself, your family and your community safe during the hot weather.