Take care in heatwave say hospital medics and nurses
Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long there are health risks. If a heatwave hits this summer, make sure the hot weather doesn’t harm you or anyone you know.
Top advice for being sun safe:
- Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
- Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection, wear a wide brimmed hat and light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. This should minimise the risk of sunburn.
- Drink lots of cool drinks and when travelling ensure you take water with you
- Look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses
- Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially older people, infants, young children or animals
- If medicines are sensitive to temperature it may be worth keeping them in the fridge
- Children should not take part in vigorous physical activity on very hot days, such as when temperatures are above 30°C
Remember that it can get uncomfortably hot indoors too. Try to keep your bedroom and living space cool by closing the curtains on windows that face the sun and opening your windows at cooler times of the day and overnight when safe to do so. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat.
For more information visit NHS Livewell / Summerhealth
Updated 25/08/2021