Most people enjoy the sunshine, but heat can cause serious health problems especially for older people, young children, and those with existing health conditions. We provide practical advice to help you stay safe, keep your home cool, look after your pets, and support neighbours, friends and family who may be more vulnerable during warm conditions.
Who is most at risk
Hot weather can affect anyone, but some people are more likely to become seriously unwell. These include:
- older people, especially those aged 65 and over
- babies and young children, particularly under 5
- people with long‑term health conditions, such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, kidney disease, dementia or severe mental illness
- people taking certain medicines, including some for blood pressure, heart conditions, mental health or fluid balance
- people who are less mobile or live alone, including those who are frail or housebound
- people who work or exercise outdoors, such as construction workers, delivery drivers, runners and cyclists
- people living in very warm homes, including top‑floor flats or properties with poor ventilation
Residents are encouraged to check in on neighbours, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable.
Tips to stay cool and well
Plan for the heat
Keep your body cool
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Limit alcohol and very sugary drinks
- Wear loose, light‑coloured clothing and a hat outdoors
- Use shade and apply high‑factor sunscreen regularly
- Take cool showers or use a damp cloth on your skin
Food and hydration
- Eat lighter meals such as salads and fruit
- Carry water when travelling, especially on public transport
Keeping your home cool
- Close curtains or blinds on sun‑facing windows
- Open windows when the air outside is cooler, usually in the evening or overnight
- Use fans safely (they are most effective below 35°C)
- Switch off lights and electrical items not in use
- Identify the coolest room in your home and spend time there during the hottest hours
Residents experiencing persistent overheating in their home may wish to contact their landlord, housing provider or local council.
Keeping pets safe in hot weather
Pets can become seriously ill very quickly in hot conditions.
Key advice includes:
- never leave pets in a parked car, conservatory or enclosed space
- ensure constant access to fresh water and shade
- walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening
- check pavements before walking - if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws
- watch for signs of heatstroke (panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, collapse) and contact a vet urgently if concerned
Signs of heat‑related illness
Heat exhaustion
Common symptoms include:
- headache
- dizziness or confusion
- loss of appetite
- excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
- cramps
- fast breathing or pulse
- intense thirst
Ensure you are mindful of these symptoms when temperatures reach above 30°C .
What to do
- move to a cool place
- lie down
- drink water
- cool the skin
Most people recover within 30 minutes.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Call 999 if someone:
- is not sweating despite being very hot
- has a temperature of 40°C or above
- is confused, unresponsive or has a seizure
- has shortness of breath
- loses consciousness
While waiting for help, move the person to a cool place, remove excess clothing and try to cool them with cold packs, a cool shower or a wet sheet.
Looking out for others
- Check on older neighbours, relatives and people who live alone
- Offer practical help such as closing blinds, collecting prescriptions or providing cool drinks
- Share trusted advice from the NHS, UKHSA and local councils
Open water swimming
Hot weather can make open water swimming seem appealing, but it carries significant risks. Even in summer, lakes, rivers and reservoirs can be much colder than they appear, which can lead to cold water shock, breathing difficulties and sudden loss of muscle control. Hidden hazards such as strong currents, underwater obstacles and poor water quality can also put swimmers in danger.
Open water swimming advice
What you can do now
Extreme heat can pose serious risks, but most heat‑related illness is preventable. Stay informed, take steps to keep yourself and your home cool, and be mindful of those who may need extra support. If you plan to spend time outdoors or near open water, make safety your priority.
GOV.UK heatwave advice