Feeling hot?
Many of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot, there are health risks. During heatwaves, more people than usual get seriously ill or die. When hot weather hits, make sure it does not harm you or anyone you know.
The main risks posed by hot weather are:
- Dehydration, caused by not drinking enough water
- Overheating, which carries more risk for people with existing heart conditions or breathing difficulties
- Heat exhaustion/fatigue
Staying well in the heat
Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.
Cool yourself down. Have cold food and regular cold drinks. Drink extra fluids but avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.
Keep your living space cool. Close windows, curtains and blinds during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees.
For more information on who is at a higher risk in a heatwave, visit:
