Heatwave: how to stay safe and well in hot weather

With much of the country bracing itself for a mini-heatwave, Redbridge Council is reminding people how they can stay safe and well in the hot weather.

For the first time, temperatures of 40C have been forecast in the UK, and the Met Office has issued the first ever Red warning for exceptional heat. Exceptional heat is expected to affect a large part of England early next week, with temperatures likely in the high 30s C in some places and perhaps even reaching 40C. The Red Extreme heat national severe weather warning will cover Monday and Tuesday (18th and 19th July) for parts of central, northern, eastern and southeastern England.

It’s essential to protect yourself and others from too much sun or heat, to carry water when travelling and to think of those, such as young children or older people, who may feel the heat more acutely than others.

Before the hot weather arrives, it is a good time to think about what you can do to protect yourself, your family and your friends from the heat

The top ways to stay safe when the heat arrives are to:

• Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
• Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler, and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
• Use cool spaces if going outdoors
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, vulnerable adults, or animals
• Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest
• If you have to go outside in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat
• Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day
• Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling
• During warm weather, going for a swim can provide much-welcomed relief. If you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice.

Please find more information on staying safe in the heat.

Please visit the Met Office website for up-to-date weather information.