While many people enjoy warmer summer weather, hot weather can cause some people to become unwell through overheating (becoming uncomfortably hot), dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
The best thing to do in hot weather is stay out of the direct sun, especially during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm, as UV rays are strongest during these hours.
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol during the hot weather.
If you’re going out in hot weather, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and light, loose-fitting, clothes in light-colours.
Apply sunscreen frequently of at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 star ultraviolet A (UVA) protection regularly to exposed skin.
Avoid extreme physical exertion during the hot weather. If you can’t avoid strenuous outdoor activity, e.g. walking the dog, do it in cooler parts of the day such as early morning or evening.
Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them.
Looking after others
Check on family, friends and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and if you are at higher risk, ask them to do the same for you.
Anyone can become unwell when the weather is hot. People who are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell include:
- older people aged 65 years and over (note change from previous guidance of 75 years of age and above)
- babies and young children aged 5 years and under
- people with underlying health conditions particularly heart problems, breathing problems, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, or mobility problems
- pregnant women
- people on certain medications
- people with serious mental health problems
- people who are already ill and dehydrated (for example from diarrhoea and vomiting)
- people who experience alcohol or drug dependence
- people who are physically active and spend a lot of time outside such as runners, cyclists and walkers
- people who work in jobs that require manual labour or extensive time outside
- people experiencing homelessness, including rough sleepers and those who are unable to make adaptations to their living accommodation such as sofa surfers or living in hostels.
- people who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves
Look out for older people, people with long-term health conditions and young children who may find it more difficult to stay cool and hydrated in hot weather.
Check-in on older friends, family and neighbours, particularly those who live alone, who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated during the hot weather.
Don’t leave babies, children, older people or vulnerable people or pets alone in stationary cars in hot weather.
Look out for children in prams or pushchairs in hot weather; keep them in the shade, remove excess clothing, ensure there is adequate air flow and check regularly to ensure they are not overheated.
You should continue taking all of your prescribed medicines unless advised not to by a medical professional. If you have any health concerns, please call NHS 111. Some medications need to be stored below 25°C or in the fridge, following the storage instructions on the packaging.