With hot weather arriving at the end of this week, Public Health England (PHE) has issued advice for staying safe.
Parts of the country are likely to feel very warm and there will be pockets of very high temperatures in a number of areas, including the South West. The spell of hot weather is expected to continue into next week.
To enjoy the sun while staying safe:
- drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol. Everyone is at risk of dehydration in hot temperatures, but babies, children and older people are particularly vulnerable
- stay cool indoors: open windows when the air feels cooler outside than inside; shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight; move to a cooler part of the house, especially for sleeping
- slow down when it’s hot: exertion heats up our bodies so plan any strenuous activities (such as exercise and gardening) outside the hottest time of the day, typically 11am to 3pm
- cool your skin with water. You could use a cool wet sponge or flannel, cool water spray, cold packs around the neck and armpits, or a cool, wet sheet
- stay connected and up to date with the weather forecast. Knowing the forecast can help you plan ahead and adapt what you’re doing
- dress appropriately for the weather – wear a hat, and light, loose cotton clothes
- protect yourself against the sun’s radiation by applying sunscreen and monitoring the real-time UV index
- eat salads and fruit – the perfect summer foods as they contain more water so can help keep you hydrated
For more information on the common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, visit NHS.UK.
Read Public Health England’s COVID-19 and summer temperatures blog for more advice on how to stay well in hot weather.
