Have fun in the sun and take care

With summer in full swing and another heatwave on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to explore everything Redbridge has to offer.

We want you to have fun but also to be mindful of yourself and your family as the heat rises and places become busier.

Discover Redbridge:

Redbridge is a treasure trove of free activities, offering something for everyone. From cycling to walking, swimming, and other outdoor pursuits, our community is brimming with opportunities. These activities, right in our backyard, cater to all age groups, making us truly fortunate to be part of such a vibrant community.  

Hainault Forest hosts pottery workshops and woodworking in the woods, while the little ones can enjoy building dens and going bug hunting.

Fairlop Waters boasts fantastic cycle trails, and our local parks are perfect for families to enjoy in this weather.

You can find out what's happening in Redbridge on the Discover Redbridge website.

Parks and BBQS:

If you want to head down to your local park for a picnic with loved ones in the sun, it's a great option. We hope you have a great time, but please remember to pick up and dispose of your rubbish.

BBQs are not allowed in our parks (including disposable ones). Please dispose of cigarette butts safely as the grass can be very dry, and fires can start and spread quickly. This puts people, homes, property and wildlife in danger. You can help to reduce the risk of a fire by not using any naked flames in the open.  

Swimming safety and open water:

If you would like to go swimming, you can visit Loxford Leisure Centre or Mayfield Leisure Centre. Both of these centres have swimming pools.

 Please remember that swimming is NOT allowed in any lakes in Redbridge.

While the prospect of a dip in open water on a boiling day may look too good to be true, it can also be extremely dangerous – even fatal, as we’ve seen during previous hot spells of hot weather.  

Please watch this video from the Metropolitan Police Service, which highlights the serious risks of swimming in open water

Support for rough sleepers:

The Welcome Centre in Ilford is open to help people stay safe in the hot weather. It offers shade, drinking water, showers, and towels. People are also being advised not to drink alcohol in the heat.

Ryedale Care Centre is also helping by providing access to two toilets and a shower.
Outreach teams will be working across the borough, giving out water and directing people who are sleeping rough to available services.

Updates on service changes due to hot weather:

TBC

Ways to enjoy the warm weather and stay safe:

• Be mindful of those who may struggle to stay cool and hydrated, particularly older adults, individuals with underlying health conditions, and those living alone.
• Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler
• It's important to stay hydrated in hot weather, as the body loses more water through sweating. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids, especially water, and take a bottle with you if you're going to be out and about. This will help to prevent dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, vulnerable adults, or animals. The temperature inside a parked car can quickly reach dangerous levels.
• Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm when UV rays are strongest.
• Apply sunscreen with a high SPF, and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day.

Please share this vital safety information with your friends, family, and neighbours. By doing so, we can ensure everyone stays safe and enjoys the summer. Let's all play our part in keeping our community safe.

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