Stay safe and well in the heat

Find out things you can do to stay safe and how to look after vulnerable people in the hot weather.

Things we can do to stay safe

Warm, sunny weather is a great chance to get outside but being in the heat can affect our health, especially for older people, young children and anyone with a health condition. 

There are simple things we can all do to stay safe, keep cool and support people who may be more vulnerable during periods of hot weather. 

Keep cool 

To avoid getting too hot you should:

  • stay out of direct sunlight where possible 
  • spend time in shaded areas 
  • avoid strenuous activity during the hottest hours 
  • wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing 
  • wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses 
  • apply suncream regularly 

At home: 

  • keep curtains or blinds closed in rooms that face the sun 
  • open windows when it is cooler outside

Get more advice on keeping your home cool during hot weather.

Stay hydrated 

Drinking plenty of fluids helps your body stay cool. You should:

  • drink water regularly throughout the day 
  • avoid drinking too much alcohol 
  • take a refillable water bottle with you when you're out and about 
  • use the drinking fountains and refill points across the city 

Check on friends, family and neighbours

Some people may find it harder to cope when temperatures rise. 

Check in with anyone who may need extra support, including: 

  • older people 
  • young children and babies 
  • people with long-term health conditions 
  • people who live alone 
  • people who find it difficult to look after themselves 

A quick call, message or visit can help make sure someone is keeping cool, drinking enough water and getting the support they need. 

Environmental factors 

Some living or working conditions can increase the health risks from hot weather. 

These include: 

  • living in a top-floor flat 
  • experiencing homelessness 
  • working or exercising outdoors 
  • spending time in hot indoor environments 

Never leave anyone in a parked vehicle, even for a short time. Vehicles can become dangerously hot very quickly. This includes children, babies and animals. 

Hot weather can affect household appliances - check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.

Sea swimming safety

Swimming can be a good way to cool down, but it's important to stay safe and know the risks. 

Find out how to stay safe when visiting our beaches or swimming in the sea. 

Staying cool at work

Hot weather can make work more difficult and increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

If you work indoors:

  • drink water regularly throughout the day
  • keep blinds or curtains closed where possible
  • use fans or ventilation to improve airflow
  • take regular breaks away from hot or stuffy areas
  • wear lightweight clothing if your workplace dress code allows, or alternative clothing if your work requires uniforms 

If you work outdoors:

  • carry water with you and drink it often
  • take breaks in the shade where possible
  • avoid the most physically demanding tasks during the hottest part of the day
  • wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen
  • look out for signs of heat-related illness in yourself and colleagues

Employers should make sure staff have access to drinking water, shaded or cool rest areas, and any other support needed during periods of extreme heat.

Health conditions that increase risk 

People with certain medical conditions are more at risk of becoming unwell. These medical conditions include:

  • heart, kidney or respiratory conditions
  • dementia
  • diabetes
  • obesity
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • severe mental illness
  • mobility problems

People on certain medications that can affect heart or kidney function, cognition or ability to sweat are also more at risk.

Air pollution can become worse during hot weather. This can cause problems for people with asthma and other breathing problems.

Medicines

Make sure you can store medicines according to the instructions on the packaging, especially if they need to be kept cool.

Some medicines can also affect how the body responds to heat or regulates temperature.

More information to help you stay safe

For more information on how to stay safe in hot weather read: