Why is a heatwave a problem? Let’s all look out for the vulnerable or those living alone.

The main risks posed by a heatwave are:

not drinking enough water (dehydration)
overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing
heat exhaustion and heatstroke

Who’s most at risk?

A heatwave can affect anyone, but the most vulnerable people are:

older people – especially those over 75
those who live on their own or in a care home
people who have a serious or long term illness – including heart or lung conditions, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease or some mental health conditions
those who may find it hard to keep cool – babies and the very young, the bed bound, those with drug or alcohol addictions or with Alzheimer’s disease
people who spend a lot of time outside or in hot places – those who live in a top floor flat, the homeless or those whose jobs are outside

look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
stay cool indoors – many of us will need to stay safe at home this summer so know how to keep your home cool
close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
walk in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
avoid exercising in the hottest parts of the day
make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling
if you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice

If you have concerns about an uncomfortably hot house that’s affecting your health or someone else’s, get medical advice.