Staying safe in the heat

Over the next few days we are expecting a significant increase in temperature. Although most of us welcome the summer sun, high temperatures can be harmful to your health. The heat can affect anyone, but some people run a greater risk of serious harm.

Many of those who are at risk of harm from heat are also at greater risk of severe illness due to COVID-19. They may need to spend more time at home than they would usually. Others may need to stay at home because they are self-isolating or recovering from the infection. Many people are now working from home.

However there are actions you can take to keep yourself safe from excessive heat.

There are some easy tips you can follow to stay safe in hot weather, including how to keep your home cool. You can also find out who is at greatest risk of ill health from the heat, how to recognise when you or someone’s health may be affected, and what to do if you or someone else becomes unwell as a result of the heat here.

You can also help others who may be affected by the heat. These are:

• Stay cool at home - look out for others safely by following COVID-19 guidance
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
• Slow down when it is hot
• Go indoors or outdoors, whichever feels cooler
• Self-isolate at home if advised to do so
• Use cool spaces considerately, keep your distance if others not in your household are there
• Be on the lookout for signs of heat-related illness. These include heat stroke and heat exhaustion.

Find out more on how to stay safe in a heatwave .
You can also get an easy read guide of information on how to keep yourself safe in a heatwave.

If you need non-emergency medical help visit NHS111 online

For free medical advice for any non-emergency 24 hours a day use NHS111 online https://digital.nhs.uk/services/nhs-111-online or call NHS 111

Advice and guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19) is available on the Government website. https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

Public Health England has also put together a checklist for identifying and managing indoor overheating