Staying safe in the heat

Heat and your health

Whilst a sunny day is always welcome, prolonged periods of heat put extra stress on your body and cause you to lose fluids which can lead to a number of health issues from Heat Stroke to Circulatory problems. Being out and about in the sun can cause severe sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer. Some tips to keep you safe and cool can be found online:

• Cover up, wear a wide brimmed hat and apply sunscreen regularly
• Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol
• If you live alone or are vulnerable, ask a friend or neighbour to check up on you
• More advice and health tips can be found at:
  • Keep Cool at Home checklist from UK Government
  • NHS Livewell – How to cope in hot weather
  • AGE UK – Advice for older people in heatwaves

Being a good neighbour

The good weather brings us out into our gardens to enjoy some much needed social time with our friends and families, but it is important that whilst we have fun, we are safe and consider our neighbours. Outdoor activities can be fun but can impact on other people’s enjoyment:

• If you are having a BBQ, ensure that it is not placed directly or near any plants or flammable surfaces – this includes grassed areas which may be dryer than usual
• Follow the BBQ safety guide 
• If you live in a scheme with other residents, BBQs are generally not permitted in the communal outdoor areas for safety reasons due to the enclosed nature and impact on vulnerable people. If you have any questions, please contact your scheme manager.

Remember that other people will have their windows open so please consider them and any noise from music or children playing – especially later in the evenings – why not use it as an opportunity to check in your neighbours and see if they are ok in the heat.