4 tips for staying safe in extreme heat

1. Keeping yourself cool

2. Keeping cool on public transport

3. Stay safe in the water

4. Looking after others

1. Keeping yourself cool

The heat can affect your health and make you feel unwell, there are many simple things you can do to keep yourself safe: 

• Keep out of the sun and avoid any exercise between 11am to 3pm when the sun is the strongest 
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Close your curtains in rooms that face the sun
• If you are going out, take water with you, keep in the shade, wear sunscreen and wear a wide brimmed hat

2. Keeping cool on public transport

Make the most of the weather by staying well whilst using public transport. Follow these easy tips to keep cool:

• Carry some water with you and drink lots of fluids
• If you feel unwell get off at next stop for some fresh air
• Dress light, choose light fabrics in light colours
• Help others - for anyone struggling, ice packs/cold compresses to wrists, neck, elbows can help them cool down quickly
• Take a small hand-held battery fan

3. Stay safe in the water

If you're planning on enjoying the water, here are 3 simple ways you can help keep yourself safer:

• Check the water temperature, our seas and river temperatures are low enough to cause cold water shock when 15°C or lower
• Wear a wetsuit if you plan on spending any length of time in the water
• Wearing a life jacket or swimming buoy can increase your chances if you experience cold water shock

4. Looking after others

Help to protect the vulnerable people that you know, including older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone. They may need support to keep cool and hydrated. For more advice visit the NHS website.

Be prepared for weather warnings to change quickly. When a weather warning is issued, stay up to date with the weather in your area.