search

Hot weather and heat waves

There are steps you can take to help you and your family stay well during periods of hot weather.

Some groups of people are more at risk of experiencing heat-related health problems during periods of hot weather. These include:

  • Older people, people with chronic medical conditions, and people who are obese or overweight;
  • People who live alone, or people who are socially isolated or reliant upon others;
  • Children, especially babies and young children.

Here are some simple and easy steps you can take to ensure you and others are staying healthy in the heat:

 

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
  • Don't wait until you get thirsty
  • If you are going out, take some water with you and always keep a bottle of water in the car
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages

 

Stay cool
  • Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibres, such as cotton
  • Plan your day to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day
  • Take regular breaks in the shade when outdoors
  • Place a damp cloth/scarf/handkerchief on the back of your neck, and re-wet as needed
  • Park your car in a shady spot and never leave children or pets in a car unattended
  • Wear a hat, sunglasses and carry an umbrella to use as a sun shade
  • Splash or spray some water on arms and feet to cool off
  • Have cool showers or baths
  • Move to the coolest room in the house
  • Take a dip at the beach or swimming pools to cool off
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity or exercise - try and plan activity for early morning or in the evening

 

Keep your house cool
  • If the inside temperature is cooler than outside, keep windows closed and blinds down 
  • Open the windows once the temperature outside is cooler mostly during the evening, night and early morning
  • Use a fan or air-conditioning unit where possible
  • Consider using pale curtains or other reflective materials on windows
  • Try not to use the stove or oven as often

 

Take care of each other
  • Keep an eye out on your neighbours and check if they are ok
  • Older people who live alone may need to be checked on daily to ensure they are well
  • Remember that pets and animals can also suffer from the heat – keep them in the shade and provide them with plenty of water

Last updated 13.12.2022

For health advice call Healthline for free anytime on 0800 611 116
MENU menu-arrow
Public
health topics