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Heatwave
A heatwave is an extended period of exceptionally high temperatures, often accompanied by high humidity, which can pose serious health risks, strain water and energy supplies, and increase the risk of wildfires. Knowing how to prepare for, cope with, and recover from extreme heat can help protect your health, stay comfortable, and minimise heat-related impacts.
Important Numbers
• Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 999
• NHS Non-Emergency Medical Advice: 111
• UK Met Office (Weather Warnings & Heat Alerts): 0370 900 0100
• Age UK Advice Line (Support for Older People): 0800 678 1602
Before
Before a Heatwave
Check Weather Forecasts - Monitor the Met Office for heatwave warnings and temperature updates.
Prepare Your Home - Close blinds or curtains during the day, check fans or air conditioning, and create shaded areas outside if possible.
Stock Up on Essentials - Ensure you have enough drinking water, lightweight clothing, sun cream, and cooling aids like handheld fans or cooling packs.
Plan for Vulnerable People - Check in with elderly relatives, young children, or anyone with health conditions who may struggle in the heat.
Know Where to Go - Identify local cool spaces such as libraries, shopping centres, or community centres if your home gets too hot.
During
During a Heatwave
Stay Hydrated - Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol or too much caffeine.
Keep Cool Indoors - Stay in the coolest parts of your home, use fans safely, and keep curtains or blinds closed during peak sun hours.
Avoid the Sun - Stay out of direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when it’s hottest.
Look After Others - Check in regularly with neighbours, family, and friends who may need extra help.
Watch for Heat-Related Illness - Know the signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke and call NHS 111 if you or someone else feels unwell.
After
After a Heatwave
Check on Vulnerable People - Make sure those who needed extra help are still okay once temperatures drop.
Ventilate Your Home - Open windows when it’s cooler to let heat out and fresh air in.
Replenish Supplies - Restock bottled water, sun cream, or cooling packs so you’re ready for the next heatwave.
Review What Worked - Note what helped you stay cool and safe this time so you can improve your plan for future hot spells.
Look After Your Garden or Pets - Water plants that may have suffered and ensure pets have fresh, cool water and shade.
Other Information
Stay Informed: Keep up with local weather updates and heat alerts from the Met Office to plan your day safely.
Dress Appropriately: Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and a wide-brimmed hat if you need to go outside.
Food Safety: High temperatures can spoil food faster - store perishables properly and avoid leaving food out.
Pet Care: Never leave pets in hot cars or confined spaces. Make sure they have plenty of shade and cool water.
Health Risks: Be aware of signs of heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness) and Hyperthermia (confusion, high body temperature) - seek medical help if needed.
Hydration Tips: Eat hydrating foods like fruits and salads and avoid heavy meals that generate body heat.
Electrical Demands: Hot weather can increase power demand - plan ahead for possible power cuts by having a backup fan or power bank ready.
Community Support: Many councils set up public ‘cool spaces’ - find out where your nearest one is in case your home becomes too hot.
Long-Term Prep: Consider long-term adaptations like loft insulation, external shading, or planting trees for natural shade around your property.
Extra Reading
