Temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-30s across parts of the UK this week, with many areas experiencing their third heatwave of the year. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued guidance urging people to check on family, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable to the heat, and to take steps to keep cool. Here is what you need to know about staying safe during a UK heatwave.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious and potentially life-threatening conditions. Anyone can be affected, but older people, those who live alone, and people who are already ill may be at higher risk. The UKHSA advises: “It’s important to check on family, friends and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and if you are at higher risk, ask them to do the same for you.”
“UK heatwave safety: how to stay cool and check on vulnerable neighbours, with official UKHSA guidance.”
The Met Office has forecast an increased chance of heatwaves this summer, so preparation is key. During a heatwave, the UKHSA recommends staying out of the sun when it is strongest, typically between 11am and 3pm. If outdoors, apply high protection sunscreen regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade. Indoors, keep windows and curtains closed in rooms that face the sun during the day. Open windows when the air feels cooler outside, such as at night, and try to get air flowing through your home.
Heatwaves have become more frequent and intense in the UK in recent years, partly due to climate change. The Met Office has noted that summers are getting hotter, and the UK’s infrastructure – including homes and public transport – is not always designed for extreme heat. This makes public health advice especially important for vulnerable groups.
For UK readers, the practical impact is significant: knowing the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke can save lives. Symptoms include headache, dizziness, confusion, loss of appetite, nausea, excessive sweating, pale clammy skin, cramps in the arms, legs and stomach, fast breathing or pulse, a temperature of 38C or above, and intense thirst. The NHS advises contacting NHS 111 for advice if you or someone else has symptoms of heat exhaustion. If someone shows signs of heatstroke – such as feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking fluids, not sweating even while feeling too hot, a high temperature of 40C or above, fast breathing or shortness of breath, confusion, a fit, loss of consciousness, or being unresponsive – call 999 immediately.
Q: What should I do if I think my neighbour is suffering from heat exhaustion? First, move them to a cool place, get them to lie down and raise their feet slightly, give them plenty of water, and cool their skin with a spray or sponge and a fan. If they don’t improve within 30 minutes, seek medical advice via NHS 111. For heatstroke symptoms, call 999 immediately.
Q: How can I keep my home cool during a heatwave without air conditioning? Keep curtains closed in sun-facing rooms during the day, open windows at night when it’s cooler, and use fans or damp cloths. Avoid using ovens or hobs that generate heat. Turn off unnecessary lights and electrical devices.
Q: Who is most at risk during a heatwave in the UK? Older people, those who live alone, people with long-term health conditions (such as heart or breathing problems), babies and young children, and those who are on certain medications are most vulnerable. The UKHSA recommends checking on them regularly.
The Met Office forecast for this summer suggests an increased chance of heatwaves, so the UKHSA says now is the time to be prepared. People are encouraged to speak to their neighbours and ask if they are okay, or kindly ask them to check in regularly. With more hot weather expected, these simple steps can help everyone stay safe.