Heatwaves: keeping cool at home and looking after others

Who is most at risk

Anyone can become unwell in the heat. Be Ready lists those at greatest risk as including older adults, babies and young children, pregnant people, people with heart or breathing problems, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s or mobility problems, people who work or exercise outdoors a lot, people who live alone, people who are homeless, and people living in top-floor flats or homes with windows that barely open.

In England, the UK Health Security Agency issues heat-health alerts. If one is issued for your area, check on anyone you know in the groups above.

Some medicines can affect how your body copes with heat. Do not stop taking anything, but ask your pharmacist or GP if you are unsure, and check how your medicines should be stored.

Before hot weather

• Read the NHS page on heat exhaustion and heatstroke so you know the signs.
• Work out which rooms get hottest and which stay coolest. Blinds or curtains on sunny windows make a real difference.
• If your home overheats badly, UKHSA’s Beat the heat advice has ideas, and tenants can raise it with their landlord or council.
• Check fridges, freezers and fans are working, and that the heating is off.
• For the car: check tyres, fluids and air conditioning, and keep water in it in case you break down or get stuck.

During a heatwave

• Stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm. Walk the dog and exercise in the early morning or evening.
• Keep your home cool. Close curtains and windows on sunny sides during the day, and open windows when the air outside feels cooler.
• Drink plenty of fluids, and take a refillable bottle when you go out. Go easy on alcohol.
• Dress for it: loose, light-coloured clothes, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Use sunscreen generously and reapply it, especially after swimming or towelling.
• Find somewhere cooler if home is too hot: shade outside, or a library, place of worship or supermarket.
• Allow extra time for journeys. Heat can damage roads and slow trains.

Cold water can be dangerous even on a hot day. If you plan to swim outdoors, read the Royal Life Saving Society’s summer water safety advice.

Heat exhaustion and heatstroke

The NHS lists signs of heat exhaustion including tiredness, dizziness, headache, feeling or being sick, heavy sweating with pale clammy skin, cramps, a high temperature, intense thirst and irritability.

If someone has heat exhaustion, the NHS says to move them somewhere cool, remove unnecessary clothing, give them plenty of water (a sports drink or rehydration sachet also helps), and cool their skin with cool water and a fan. Stay with them. They should feel better within 30 minutes. Call NHS 111 if you are struggling to treat it.

Pets in the heat

Pets need shade, fresh water and walks at cooler times of day. Pavements can get hot enough to hurt paws. The Met Office has advice on keeping pets safe in hot weather, and your vet can advise on your animal.

Heat and water supplies

Long hot spells can put pressure on water supplies, and some areas may face hosepipe bans or low pressure. Use water carefully when your water company asks, and keep the bottled water in your 3-day kit topped up. If anyone in your home has extra needs, see our Priority Services Register guide.