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Published
18 July 2022

Take Care During High Temperatures

Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the effects of the heat. We have been enjoying seasonably warm weather. However, the Met Office has issued a Level 4 Red Alert for temperatures likely to exceed 35°C on Monday 18 and Tuesday 19 July
Picture of the sun in a golden coloured sky
Watching Out for Vulnerable Neighbours and Family Members

During severe hot weather older people and those with long term chronic conditions such as dementia, diabetes, respiratory, renal insufficiency, and severe mental illness are at greater risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. The effects can result in heat rash, heat cramps, oedema and fatalities in the most vulnerable groups.

Wear sunscreen, shades and light hats or scarves when out.

Keep curtains closed and blinds down.

Open windows when it becomes cooler.

Take cool baths or showers.

Wear lightweight light coloured comfortable clothing.

Try to avoid going out during the hottest hours between 11am and 3pm

Walk in the shade and only sit in shady areas.

Increase your fluid intake and try to have a drink very hour.

Treat yourself to ice lollies and cool squash 

Reduce physical activity to avoid exertion

If You're Travelling About
  • Carry water with you at all times. Drink every 30 minutes especially if driving or out of doors
  • Open the car windows to allow the hot air to escape before getting in and turning on A/C
  • Slow down. You need to allow for the extra effort needed when working in the heat.
  • Wear a hat and sunscreen when outside
  • Listen for traffic updates to avoid traffic jams
  • Take regular breaks and have them somewhere cool
  • Make sure you are hydrated (checking your urine is an easy way of keeping an eye on your hydration levels – dark or strong-smelling urine is a sign that you should drink more fluids).
  • Be aware of the signs and symptoms of heat stress and dehydration (thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, loss of appetite, dark or strong-smelling urine, urinating infrequently or in small amounts, inability to concentrate, muscle cramps). Don’t wait until you start to feel unwell before you take a break. NHS Signs of Heat Exhaustion.
  • Use a buddy system with your relative friend or team to look out for the signs of heat stress (eg confusion, looking pale or clammy, fast breathing) in each other.
  • After work, try to stay cool to give your body a chance to recover.

 

 

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