With hot temperatures forecast throughout the week, the Met Office have issued an amber health alert for extreme heat.
Many of us welcome hot weather, but when it's too hot, there are health risks. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious and potentially life-threatening conditions.
We want to make sure everyone enjoys the sunshine safely, so whether you're heading out for a day trip, relaxing at home or working there are simple steps we can all take to stay safe and well.
Tips to stay safe and well during extreme heat
Here are some easy tips to help you stay safe and feel your best:
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day and avoid excessive amounts of caffeine or alcohol.
- Dress to stay cool: Wear lightweight, loose clothing and a sun hat.
- Use sunscreen: Apply it regularly throughout the day, ideally every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF30 or higher and apply it generously.
- Cool your home: Close curtains during the day and open windows at night.
- Adjust activities: Try to exercise earlier in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day and stay hydrated throughout.
Look after those who may be at risk from the heat, such as older relatives and people on certain medications. Watch out for signs of heatstroke and together, we can all enjoy the warmer weather safely.
For more information on staying safe in hot weather visit: Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather - NHS
Keeping children and babies safe in hot weather
When temperatures rise, it's really important to keep your little ones safe from the heat. Here are some simple, essential tips:
- Stay hydrated: Make sure babies are well hydrated by regularly offering them breast milk or formula. Older children should drink water regularly, including before and after playing in the sun.
- Stay safe in the sun: Keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight and dress them for the weather, including lightweight clothes covering exposed skin, a hat and sunglasses. Regularly apply sunscreen for children over six months.
- Stay cool: Keep your home cool and if you're out and about, stick to shaded areas between 10am and 4pm.
- Take care in play parks: Play equipment can get very hot in the sun. Always check the temperature of slides, swings and other play structures before letting your children play on them.
If you notice any signs of heat stress, like excessive sweating or flushed skin, move your child into a shaded area immediately and offer them fluids to stay hydrated.
Further information can be found here: Keeping your baby safe in the sun - NHS