TOP TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE DURING A HEATWAVE
Published: 29/03/2019
Staying Safe This Summer
With temperatures set to soar over 30C this week, with a level 3 heatwave in our region, we all need to play our part in keeping our loved ones and elderly neighbours safe this summer so we have put together some top tips to help.
Extremely hot weather poses a number of health risks and those particularly vulnerable are babies and young children; the elderly; and people with serious chronic conditions.
The main risks, as outlined by the NHS, are:
- dehydration;
- overheating; and
- heat exhaustion/heatstroke.
Top Tips
Fear of COVID-19 should not prevent action to tackle the risks from hot weather and heatwaves. To help you and your loved ones stay safe during the hot weather, we are sharing some top tips:
Minimise internal heat gains by turning off central heating, electrical equipment and lights not in use. Shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight to minimise solar heat gain. Open windows when the air feels cooler outside to create natural ventilation, when it’s safe to do so, and use air conditioning units or systems.
Stay out of the heat:
• Keep out of the sun between 11.00am and 3.00pm
• If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat
• Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes
Cool yourself down:
• Have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
• Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content
• Take a cool shower, bath or body wash
• Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck
For more tips and up-to-date advice, visit the GOV.UK website.
