Hot weather can affect your health. The people most likely to be affected are the elderly, the very young, and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

Please follow this advice to keep cool and comfortable and reduce health risks:

• Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it’s safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.
• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day).
• Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn’t possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
• Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
• Wear loose, cool clothing and a hat if you go outdoors.
• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

Also, please don’t forget about the animals in your care and view the top tips for keeping pets cool in hot weather by using the RSPCA link below.

Useful links

For more information go to:

• UK Health Security Agency Heatwave Plan For England and Guidance Documents
• Met Office Heat-health watch
• NHS Choices Heatwave: be prepared
• WSCC Dealing with extreme weather
• WSCC Preparing for emergencies
• Follow us on Twitter for regular updates @WSCCNews @WSCCResilience @wspublichealth
• RSPCA Top tips for keeping pets cool in hot weather