Your Health Barnet blog

As summers continue to get hotter in the UK, it is very important to know what you can do to reduce the negative health effects of hot weather.

Here are some suggestions which we recommend you follow:

• Keep out of the heat as best as possible, including at night
• Avoid strenuous physical activity
• Ensure children and animals are not left in parked vehicles
• Keep your body cool and hydrated
• Use light and loose-fitting clothing and light bed linen
• Take cool showers or baths
• Drink regularly while avoiding alcoholic, caffeinated and sugary drinks
• If necessary and possible, try to spend 2–3 hours of the day in a cool place
• Keep your space cool. Use the night air to cool down your room by opening windows. Reduce heat inside during the day by using blinds or shutters and turning off non-essential appliances.

Remember!

Seek medical advice if you are suffering from a chronic condition or are taking multiple medications. If you feel dizzy, weak or anxious, or experience intense thirst and headaches, move to a cooler place. Help others by checking on family and friends, including elderly people living alone. 

Visit: www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/ for more advice on keeping well and safe during hot weather.