Hot weather

Although many of us enjoy warmer, summer weather, high temperatures can cause people to become unwell through overheating, dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Hot weather can also place a strain on water and energy networks, road and rail transport, and health and fire services.

Who is most at risk?

Hot weather can affect anyone, but some face a higher risk of being impacted by heat.

Those most at risk include older adults, babies and young children, pregnant people, and people with underlying health conditions.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion include tiredness, dizziness, feeling or being sick, excessive sweating, becoming pale and clammy, being very thirsty and weakness.

If you or someone else is struggling or need advice contact NHS 111

What you can do before, during and after

Before

Prepare for the heat. Stay informed.

Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and what to do to reduce them.
Consider modifying your home to keep it cool, such as installing external shutters, blinds, or growing plants to shade south facing windows.
Contact your water and power suppliers to see if you’re eligible to be put on Priority Service Registers.
If a period of hot weather is forecast, prepare your vehicle by checking your tyres, fluid levels, battery, and air conditioning, and pack water bottles in your car boot in case of a breakdown.

During

Stay cool. Keep hydrated.

Check the weather forecasts and warnings for heat health and air pollution forecasts in your area. Air pollution can become worse during hot weather and can cause problems for people with asthma and other breathing problems.
Keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day – this is between 11am and 3pm.
Plan physical activities – exercising or walking your dog at cooler times of the day such as morning or evening.
Drink plenty of fluids and if you go out take water with you.
Check your route for any disruption before travelling and make sure you carry plenty of bottled water.
Keep your home cooler by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun.
Wear lightweight loose-fitting light-coloured clothes and cover up if you go outside to protect your skin.
Wear suitable clothing such as a hat and sunglasses, seek shade and use SPF30 sunscreen or above.
Check on family, friends, and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and if you are at higher risk ask them to do the same for you. If you are worried about your own or someone else’s health contact NHS 111.

After

Check on others. Stay alert.

Make sure any vulnerable neighbours or relatives are safe and well – provide them with any help they may need.
Report damage or problems with the water or power supplies to your landlord or relevant providers.

Quick links

In an emergency

Call 999 immediately
Get out, stay out