Public Health news: Summer Health Advice

June 2022

Summer Health Advice

Hot weather can have adverse effects on all of us but especially for the very young, elderly or those with long term medical conditions. If hot weather hits this summer, make sure it does not harm you or your loved ones by following these top tips:-

Stay out of the heat:

  • keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
  • if you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade and protect your skin with clothing, including a hat, t-shirt and sunglasses
  • use a 'high protection' sunscreen of at least SPF 30 which also has high UVA protection and apply it generously and frequently when in the sun.
  • avoid extreme physical exertion
  • 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
  • sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck

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 when the temperature has dropped
  • close curtains that receive morning or afternoon sun, however, care should be taken with metal blinds and dark curtains, as these can absorb heat - consider replacing or putting reflective material in‑between them and the window space
  • turn off non‑essential lights and electrical equipment - they generate heat
  • keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air
  • if possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping
  • if you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice

Look out for others:

  • keep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people and make sure they are able to keep cool
  • keep babies, young children and the elderly out of direct sunlight
  • ensure that babies, children, elderly people and animals are not left alone in stationary cars

For more advice, go to Stay safe this summer