Staying safe this summer | News

We've already seen some very high temperatures this summer, but with more heatwaves potentially on the horizon, it's important to look after yourself and others. Here are some top tips for keeping cool, spotting signs of danger, and staying safe this summer.

Keeping yourself cool

• Stay well hydrated by drinking lots of water.
• Avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as alcohol, coffee, or energy drinks.
• Wear light-coloured, loose clothing – cotton or linen are breathable materials.
• If you’re going out, avoid the midday sun (11am-3pm).
• Wear a hat and sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to protect your skin.
• Use a water spray bottle to mist yourself or a damp cloth to wipe your arms, neck, and face.
• Check on vulnerable neighbours, friends, and relatives, especially if they're elderly or have serious or long-term illnesses.

 

Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion caused by the body’s inability to cool quickly enough. Heat exhaustion doesn’t usually need emergency medical help if you can cool down within 30 minutes. If it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency, and you should call 999.

 

Around the home

• Close curtains/blinds in rooms that face the sun.
• Open windows at night to let the cooler air in.
• Electronics and bulbs give off heat, so turn them off when you’re not using them.
• Switch off electric fans at the plug when not in use and don't leave them on overnight.
• Keep mirrors and any glass ornaments away from direct sunlight. Not doing this could cause a fire.
• Don't use a barbecue or a fire pit in a small or semi-enclosed space like a balcony.
• Don't leave fire doors open in communal areas.
• Never disconnect an automatic closer on a door – it’s fitted for safety.
• Provide shade and cool water for pets and only walk dogs in early morning or late evening when it’s cooler.

 

Away from home

• Always carry water when you’re out and about, especially on public transport.
• If you work outdoors, take more frequent rest breaks out of the sun. If possible, escape to a cooler public place, such as a library, supermarket, or shopping centre.
• Help prevent wildfires by always taking your litter home, not discarding cigarettes on the ground or from car windows, and avoiding campfires or barbecues in the countryside. If you discover a wildfire, call 999 at once.
• It’s a good idea to download the what3words app to share your exact location during an emergency.

 

Open water

If you plan to cool off in open water, such as in the sea, a lake, or a river, the biggest risks are often cold water shock and strong currents. To stay safe, always:

• Check the conditions first. Look for local guidance before you get in, and remember that conditions can change quickly.
• Identify your exit before you get in.
• Enter the water slowly to give your body time to adjust to the temperature. Jumping in can cause shock, which is really dangerous even for strong swimmers.
• Take someone with you. Never swim alone in case you get into trouble.