Heatwave risks

Early Warnings

Be aware of the situation. As well as watching the news and listening to the radio, you could visit the Met Office for the latest weather.

Stay out of the heat

At the hottest part of the day, 11am to 3pm, try to stay out of the sun.

If you have to go out:

walk in the shade
apply sunscreen
wear a hat or light scarf to protect yourself from the sun
avoid extreme physical activity.
wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes.

Ways to keep cool

Keep yourself cool

Take water with you when travelling. Drink often throughout the day to avoid dehydration. Drink plenty of cold drinks and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks.

Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with higher water content.

Sprinkle water over your skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck. Take a cool shower, bath or body wash.

Keep your environment cool

Keeping your home cool is important for infants, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Place a thermometer in your main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the temperature. If possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping.

You should shut windows that are in the sun and open them at night when the temperature has dropped. Close curtains that receive morning and afternoon sun.

You should take care with metal blinds and dark curtains, as these can absorb heat. Consider replacing them or putting reflective material in-between them and the window space.

Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment as they generate heat.

Keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air.

If temperatures are below 35C electric fans may provide some relief.

Longer term solutions

Consider putting up external shading outside windows.

Use pale, reflective external paints.

Have your loft and cavity walls insulated this keeps the heat in when it is cold and out when it is hot.

Grow trees and leafy plants near windows to act as natural air-conditioners.

Look out for others

Keep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people and make sure they are able to keep cool.

Make sure babies, children or elderly people are not left alone in stationary cars.

Check on elderly or sick neighbours, family or friends every day during a heatwave

Be alert and call a doctor or social services if someone is unwell or needs help.

Your health

If you or others feel unwell

Try to get help if you feel dizzy, weak, anxious or have intense thirst and headache. Move to a cool place as soon as possible and measure your body temperature. Drink some water or fruit juice to rehydrate.

If you have muscular spasms in the legs, arms or abdomen you should rest immediately in a cool place. Then drink rehydration solutions that contain electrolytes. You should seek medical attention if these last more than one hour.

Consult your doctor if you feel unusual symptoms or if symptoms persist. Or if you suffer from a chronic medical condition.

Keep medicines below 25C or in the refrigerator.

Keep your pets cool

Keep your pets inside where it is cooler.

Small animals are particularly susceptible to heat. If you are unable to bring them indoors, move their cage into the shade. Drape their cage with wet towels and provide an ice pack or frozen water bottle for them to lean against.

Ensure that there is plenty of fresh, cool water in large containers for all animals. Be sure to provide several water sources in case one is spilt.

Fill a paddling pool with water so your dog can wade in the water to keep cool. Hard surface paddling pools are best due to claws.

Walk dogs during the coolness of the early mornings. You should always check the heat of the tarmac before walking them to ensure they don't burn their paws.

If your pet is in discomfort, wet its feet or dampen its face. This is an option for dogs, cats, ferrets, poultry and caged birds.