Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather
Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. If hot weather hits this summer, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know.
Hot weather can affect anyone, but some people are more at risk, including babies, older people, and those with long-term health conditions.
- Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm)
- Wear sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and reapply regularly
- Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, a hat and sunglasses
- Keep your home cool by closing curtains on sun-facing windows
- Never leave anyone - especially children or pets - in a parked car
Signs of heat exhaustion: headache, dizziness, nausea, excessive sweating, pale skin, cramps. If untreated, it can lead to heatstroke - a life-threatening emergency.
If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke, please call 999 immediately.
While waiting for the ambulance you should listen carefully to the call handler and follow the instructions given to you. The following can also help someone suffering from heat stroke:
- If possible, move the person somewhere cooler
- Increase ventilation by opening windows or using a fan
- Cool the patient down as quickly as possible by loosening their clothes, sprinkling them with cold water or wrapping them in a damp sheet
- If they are conscious, give them water or fruit juice to drink
- Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol