Stay safe in the sun

Tips on staying cool as temperatures rise…

It’s summer and don’t we know it!

We are into a mini-heatwave and while many of us will be out enjoying it, it is important to remember to stay safe and well. High temperatures can be harmful to your health and it can affect anyone.

Some people are at more risk of serious harm and severe illness than others, particularly those who are also at higher risk of COVID-19.

Now many of us are working more from home it’s even more important to make sure we look after ourselves in the 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
• what to do if you or someone else becomes unwell as a result of the heat – read the Beat the heat: coping with heat and COVID-19 guidance.

Top tips for staying safe and cool in the heat

• 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.

For free medical advice for any non-emergency 24 hours a day visit NHS111 online.

Advice and guidance on coronavirus (COVID-19) is available on the GOV.UK website.

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