How to keep cool in a heatwave
When it gets really hot, you will find this helps:
- keep your windows closed from morning to evening – do not let the hot air in
- keep your curtains and blinds closed
- stay indoors, and use a fan
- take a cool shower, or try a damp cloth on the back of your neck
- wear a hat and loose clothing if you have to go out
- remember to keep drinking, but avoid alcohol!
Be prepared
NHS Choices has detailed advice on what to do as it gets hotter:
- Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather - NHS Choices - includes what to do when the Met Office issues levels 1 to 4 heat alerts
- Heatwave Plan for England - GOV.UK is a plan intended to protect the population from heat-related harm to health and can be accessed via the link below
Spot the danger signs, and look out for your neighbours
There is helpful advice online about the signs of heat exhaustion, and what to do about it.
Older people and those with long term medical problems are most at risk. If you know someone who might need help, why not pay them a quick visit?
Look after your skin
Do not take your health for granted – cover up, use sunscreen and learn how to check for signs of a possible skin cancer:
Weather forecasts and alerts
- Weather map - BBC Sussex
- Heat Health watch - Met Office – an early warning system showing periods of high temperatures which may affect the health of the UK public
Other problems caused by hot weather
Could your car overheat in a motorway jam? Check the radiator now and then, and make sure you keep up with other regular maintenance.
If there are any major problems that we can help you with, such as disruption to roads or the public transport network, we will include an alert on this page.
