Amber heat-health alert in place

Published: 10 July 2026 Warning heat alert stay safe

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an Amber Heat Health Alert from 9am on 8 July until 9pm on 12 July 2026 for London, the South East, South West, East of England, East Midlands and West Midlands. 

An Amber alert means hot weather is expected to have a significant impact across health and care services, with increased risks to the wider population. Older people, young children and people with existing health conditions, particularly heart and respiratory conditions, are most at risk.

 How to stay safe - public health guidance

  • Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excessive alcohol.
  • Keep out of direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm.
  • Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, a hat and sunscreen (SPF 30+).
  • Keep your home cool by closing curtains and blinds in rooms facing the sun.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day.
  • Check on older relatives, neighbours and anyone who may be vulnerable.

Looking after children and vulnerable people

Babies, young children, older people and those with long-term health conditions can be particularly affected by hot weather.

  • Never leave children, vulnerable adults or pets in a parked vehicle.
  • Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight and ensure they stay cool and hydrated.
  • Make sure pushchairs and prams are shaded and well ventilated.
  • Check regularly on anyone who may struggle to keep cool or drink enough fluids.

Know the signs of heat related illness

Heat exhaustion symptoms include dizziness, weakness, nausea, headache and intense thirst. If this happens, move to a cool place, drink plenty of water and cool down as quickly as possible.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Symptoms can include a very high temperature, confusion, rapid breathing, seizures, loss of consciousness or hot skin that's not sweating and might look red (this can be harder to see on brown or black skin).

  • Call NHS 111 if symptoms of heat exhaustion do not improve or you need urgent advice.
  • Call 999 immediately if you suspect heatstroke.

For more information and advice, visit the NHS website or GOV.UK's Beat the Heat guidance.

 

General advice 

Swimming safety and open water

  • Swimming is not permitted in any lakes in Redbridge.
  • Open water can be extremely dangerous due to hidden currents, cold temperatures and underwater hazards.
  • The London Fire Brigade has produced a video on open‑water dangers — please take a moment to watch and share it.

Support for people sleeping rough

  • Outreach teams will be providing water, hats, sun protection and fresh fruit.
  • Anyone needing a safe, cool place to rest will be offered daytime respite.
  • Support will be delivered by outreach workers, the Community Safety Taskforce and The Welcome Centre.
  • Services carrying extra water in their vehicles can help us reach more people.
  • Our Community Living Rooms and The Welcome Centre are open as cooling stations for anyone needing shade and relief.
  • If you’re concerned about someone sleeping rough in Redbridge, please contact StreetLink so outreach teams can help quickly.
  • Additional beds have been set up at Ryedale Hostel for vulnerable residents needing overnight shelter.
  • Void spaces in our HMO have been offered, and further hotel spaces will be booked via Housing Solutions if required.
  • Additional water has been ordered, and our Community Taskforce Team and Parks officers will be distributing supplies to those sleeping rough.

Parks and BBQs

With the London Fire Brigade raising the wildfire risk to extreme this weekend, it is never more important that you follow the rules in our parks and open spaces.

  • Take your rubbish home or use the bins provided.
  • BBQs are not permitted in any Redbridge parks, including disposable ones.
  • Dry grass can catch fire easily. Please avoid naked flames outdoors.
  • Dispose of cigarette butts safely.

By sharing this information with friends, family and neighbours, we can help everyone stay safe during the hot weather.

Waste and recycling bin collections

We're sorry if your waste and recycling hasn't been collected. We'll catch up by the end of Friday. Please continue to place your bins at the boundary of your property by 5am. Please leave your garden waste out and it will be collected over the weekend.