Staying well in hot weather

Advice and Information - 26 July 2024

With the temperatures expected to rise over the next few weeks, we would like to remind you about how to look after yourself and your loved ones during this time.

Picture of a lady standing in the sun holding a tissue to her head to prevent sweating.

Even though most of us welcome hot weather, when it's too hot there are health risks. It is estimated that 2,803 people aged 65 years and over died due to the heat in England in 2022, and it is predicted that the number of heat-related deaths per year may triple by 2050. Therefore, it is important to be prepared and informed on how to cope with the heat.

What risks does a heatwave pose?

In a severe heatwave you may get dehydrated, and your body may overheat, leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Both are medical emergencies. If you think someone has heatstroke you should dial 999 and then try to cool them down.

Who's most at risk?

During heatwaves, more people than usual get seriously ill or die. Although a heatwave can affect anyone, the most vulnerable people are:

older people – especially those over 75 and female
those who live on their own or in a care home
people who have a serious or long-term illness including heart or lung conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson's disease or some mental health conditions
people who are on multiple medicines that may make them more likely to be badly affected by hot weather
those who may find it hard to keep cool – babies and the very young, the bed bound, those with drug or alcohol addictions or with Alzheimer's disease
people who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places – those who live in a top-floor flat, the homeless or those whose jobs are outside

How can I cope with the hot weather?

Many of the harms linked to heat exposure are preventable if a few simple actions are taken:

Drink more cold drinks, especially if you're active or exercising
Have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes
Wear light-coloured, loose clothing
Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat, if you must go out in the heat
Avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
Avoid extreme exercise or activity that makes you hotter
Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down

For more information visit GOV.UK: Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather. You can also get help from Westminster City Council.