Heatwave advice
There are a number of ways you can help keep yourself and others safe during hot weather:
- Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- If you do go outside, wear suitable clothing, including a hat and sunglasses where appropriate, seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- Avoid being in the sun during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- If you are planning physical activity, try to do it during cooler parts of the day, such as the morning or evening
- Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and what to do if you or someone else experiences them.
If people do feel unwell during the hot weather, the local NHS is here to help, with a range of services available, including:
- Pharmacies - a good first point of contact for health advice and over-the-counter medicines
- GP practices - if you need medical advice or think you may need to see a doctor
- NHS 111 online at www.111.nhs.uk, which can help direct you to the most appropriate service (for children under five years old, please call 111 instead)
- NHS 111 by phone, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, where trained advisers can help you get the care you need in the right place
- Walk-in centres and urgent treatment centres - visit www.nhs.uk for details.
Remember that 999 and A&E services are for life-threatening emergencies. Always call 999 or attend A&E immediately if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life may be at risk.
The latest weather alerts can be found here.
More information about staying safe in hot weather is available online: Visit the UK Health Security Agency and NHS websites, including guidance on