Many people will be enjoying the heatwave, with temperatures soaring to 30°C this week.
But the heat can also be dangerous, so it is important to take steps to keep yourself safe, like drinking plenty of water and not staying in the sun too long.
Southwark Council has shared the below tips for staying safe in the heat, which our readers may find useful.
Stay out of the heat:
- keep out of the sun between 11.00am and 3.00pm
- if you have to go out, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat and light scarf
- avoid extreme physical exertion and wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes
Cool yourself down:
- have plenty of cold drinks and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
- eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content
- take a cool shower, bath or body wash or sprinkle water over the skin or clothing
Keep your environment cool:
- keeping your living space cool is especially important for infants, the elderly or those with chronic health conditions or who can’t look after themselves
- place a thermometer in your main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the
temperature - keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night
- if possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping
- electric fans may provide some relief, if temperatures are below 35°C
- Look out for others:
- keep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people to ensure they are able to keep cool
- ensure that babies, children or elderly people are not left alone in stationary cars
- be alert and call a doctor or social services if someone is unwell or further help is needed
If you have a health problem:
- keep medicines below 25 °C or in the refrigerator (read storage instructions on the packaging)
- seek medical advice if you are suffering from a chronic medical condition or taking multiple medications
If you or others feel unwell:
- try to get help if you feel dizzy, weak, anxious or have intense thirst and headache; move to a
cool place as soon as possible and measure your body temperature - drink some water or fruit juice to rehydrate
- rest immediately in a cool place if you have painful muscular spasms (particularly in the legs,
arms or abdomen), and drink oral rehydration solutions containing electrolytes - medical attention is needed if heat cramps last more than one hour, if you feel unusual symptoms or if symptoms persist