Stay safe in hot weather

Anyone can become unwell when the weather is hot, particularly for those over the age of 65, babies and young children aged 5 years and under, or those with pre-existing health conditions such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.

Hot weather can cause some people to become unwell through overheating (becoming uncomfortably hot), dehydration heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Actions you can take to stay safe in hot weather

• Keep out of the sun at the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm.

• If you are going to do a physical activity (for example exercise or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler such as the morning or evening.

• Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun.

• If you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen.

• Drink plenty of fluids and limit your alcohol intake.

• Check on family, friends and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and i f you are at higher risk, ask them to do the same for you.

• Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them.

• Follow the weather updates and advice on keeping well in the heat.

• Contact NHS 111 when you fall ill or get injured when it’s not an emergency.