Summer 2022 – Stay Hydrated ~ Q&As

Most of us welcome a little bit of hot weather, weekend BBQ, family gatherings, gardening, and that little bit of tanning – but, when it is too hot for too long, there are health risks!

We know you have probably heard it all; but below are a few pointers and links straight from the NHS website to help you during this year’s amazing summer weather.

Just a little reminder; although our doors and phone lines remain open come rain or sunshine, please be patient with our team; help us look after them – while we look after you. 

Why is a heatwave a problem?

The main risks posed by a heatwave are:

• not drinking enough water (dehydration)
• overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing
• heat exhaustion and heatstroke

Who’s most at risk?

A heatwave can affect anyone, but the most vulnerable people are:

• older people – especially those over 75
• those who live on their own or in a care home
• people who have a serious or long term illness – including heart or lung conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease or some mental health conditions
• those who may find it hard to keep cool – babies and the very young, the bed bound, those with drug or alcohol addictions or with Alzheimer’s disease
• people who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places – those who live in a top floor flat, the homeless or those whose jobs are outside

Tips for coping in hot weather

• look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
• stay cool indoors – many of us will need to stay safe at home this summer so know how to keep your home cool
• close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
• if going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately, keep your distance in line with social distancing guidelines
• drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
• never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
• walk in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• avoid exercising in the hottest parts of the day
• make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling
• if you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice
• For more information visit GOV.UK: Heatwave Plan for England.

If you have concerns about an uncomfortably hot house that’s affecting your health or someone else’s, get medical advice.

You can also get help from the environmental health office at your local authority. They can inspect a home for hazards to health, including excess heat.

Find your local authority

Watch out for signs of heat related illness

If you or someone else feels unwell with a high temperature during hot weather, it may be heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Find out about the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and when to get help