Did you know? How to stay safe in a heatwave
At this time of year most of us look forward to some warm, sunny weather and the chance to spend time outdoors, but it's important to remember that some people struggle to cope in the heat.
The good news is, we can all take precautions that allow us to enjoy the hot weather safely and help people who might be more vulnerable as the temperatures rise.
Who is vulnerable?
Anyone can become unwell when the weather is hot. People who are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell include:
- older people aged 65 years and over
- babies and young children aged 5 years and under
- people with underlying health conditions particularly heart problems, breathing problems, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson's disease, or mobility problems
- people on certain medications
- people with serious mental health problems
- people who are already ill and dehydrated (for example from diarrhoea and vomiting)
- people who experience alcohol or drug dependence
- people who are physically active and spend a lot of time outside such as runners, cyclists and walkers
- people who work in jobs that require manual labour or extensive time outside
- people experiencing homelessness, including rough sleepers and those who are unable to make adaptations to their living accommodation such as sofa surfers or living in hostels
- people who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves
What can we do to stay safe?
There are a few very simple things we can all to do stay safe when we experience high temperatures.
This includes looking out for people who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Get in touch with friends, family or neighbours that may need help keeping cool.
Staying cool indoors is important, taking action like closing curtains on rooms that face the sun but also remembering that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
And if you're out and about, try to keep out of the sun and avoid physical exertion in the hottest part of the day.
There's lots more information online to help you stay safe during hot weather:
Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather - NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Hot weather and health: guidance and advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
To keep our pets cool in the summer, provide access to shade, fresh water and consider using cooling mats or fans indoors. Encourage hydration with ice cubes in water or frozen treats and choose cool times for walks. Remember, pavements get very hot! Read more here: Tips for keeping pets cool in a heatwave | World Animal Protection UK