Hot Weather - Heatwave Health Advice
Download a leaflet with advice on the hazards of a heatwave, how to recognise the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and how to deal with the effects of too much heat.
Most of us enjoy sunny weather, but extreme heat can seriously damage your health.
During a heatwave, when temperatures stay really high day after day, it can sometimes be fatal.
What are the Risks?
In a severe heatwave you may get dehydrated and your body may overheat, leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Both need urgent treatment.
What Should You Do?
Get practical tips on what to do from the NHS advice leaflet Heatwave - A Guide to Looking After Yourself and Others During Hot Weather, available to download in PDF format from the Department of Health website.
Keep out of the heat
Stay cool
Drink regularly
Seek medical advice if you have any concerns
Drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty – water or fruit juice are best. Try to avoid alcohol, tea and coffee. They make dehydration worse.
Eat as you normally would. Try to eat more cold food, particularly salads and fruit, which contain water.
Also see our Sun Safety page for advice on staying safe in the sun and protecting yourself from skin cancer.
Who is at Risk?
The heat can affect anyone, but some people run a greater risk of serious harm.
These include older people, people with mobility problems, babies and young children, people with mental health problems, and people who use alcohol or illicit drugs.
People on certain medication, or with a serious chronic condition, particularly breathing or heart problems, or who already have a high temperature from an infection are also at risk.
People who are physically active, like manual workers and people playing sports, also need to take care during heatwaves.
Older People
Older people are particularly vulnerable as they are less able to feel the heat and do not sweat as much. Therefore their bodies retain heat without them knowing it and this puts them in real danger.
The Department of Health website has advice for care home managers and staff on supporting vulnerable people before and during a heatwave.
Working in Hot Weather
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website has advice about working in hot weather, both outdoors and indoors. This includes sun protection advice, guidance on indoor temperatures and thermal comfort, including temperatures in places where food is handled.