Advice on what to do during a heatwave
With the Met Office issuing the UK's first ever Red Weather Warning for extreme heat on Monday and Tuesday, here are some simple tips and advice from our Health and Safety Manager Tom Jones!
The safety of our residents is our top priority and it is important to us that you are prepared. Here are some tips for coping in hot weather:
- Stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- When outdoors, try to stay in the shade where possible, wear sun cream and a hat.
- Try to avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day.
- Keep barbecues, fire pits and chimineas well away from your home and any fences, sheds, trees or bushes.
- Turn off lights and electrical equipment that is not in use.
- Swimming in canals, rivers and open water is dangerous, especially in hot weather.
- Check up on those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated, especially older people, those with underlying health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
- Close curtains in rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
Heat exhaustion is highly likely during hot weather. The symptoms are:
- A headache, dizziness and confusion.
- A loss of appetite and feeling sick.
- Sweat with pale, clammy skin,
- Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach.
- Fast breathing or a weakening pulse.
If you or someone you know has heat exhaustion, make sure you:
- Lie down in a cool place out of the sun with their legs raised.
- Drink lots of water and if available an isotonic drink – don’t have salt.
- Call 999 if the condition seems to be getting worse.
Read the NHS advice on what you can do to stay safe in hot weather by clicking here.
Let’s all stay safe and enjoy the sunshine.