Heat Awareness Advice

With temperatures set to soar, a level 2 health alert has been issued by the Met Office. The alert is triggered when there is a high chance that temperatures will reach between 82F (28C) and 89F (32C) over two consecutive days and not dip below 59F (15C) at night.

The alert was issued earlier this week (16th July) with the heatwave period expected to begin this evening (Thursday 17th July). Temperatures are forecast to climb above 86F (30C) on Friday with fresher weather coming in from Saturday.

Public Health England (PHE) has issued urgent heat awareness advice, warning people to turn off non-essential lights and electrical items; open windows during the night and to drink plenty of water and cold drinks to avoid dehydration.

Older people’s bodies in particular are often unable to adjust to sudden changes in temperature, which makes them more susceptible to heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Doctors have warned that hot nights are particularly dangerous for the elderly as it is more difficult for their bodies to recover from heat stress caused during hot days.

With this in mind, here are a few tips on how to stay safe:

1. Avoid the hottest times of the day (between 11am – 3pm) – if you do need to venture out make sure you aren’t outside for long periods of time and find shady spots when you can.

2. Keep hydrated – even if you’re not thirsty it’s important to drink plenty of water or fruit juice to replace fluids lost during sweating. Avoid caffeine or alcohol which increase dehydration.

3. Think lightweight – choose clothing which is loose, lightweight, light coloured and breathable, such as a white linen or cotton shirt.

4. Cool down – take cool showers and baths when possible. If you’re out and about, use a cotton hankie soaked in cool water and place it on the back of your neck and on your wrists.

5. Cover up – in addition to wearing cooler clothing it’s also important to remember a hat. No matter whether it’s a cotton baseball cap or a straw boater, headwear will help to keep your face in the shade.

6. Pick the perfect spot – seek out the coolest areas of your home during warmer weather. Keep curtains and blinds closed to prevent sun heating up rooms, especially your bedroom.

7. If safe, leave windows open during the night.

8. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items.


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