24/06/2026
🌡️ **Heatwave Safety: Stay Cool, Stay Safe!** 🌡️
With temperatures soaring, it's important to take extra care of yourself, your family, and your neighbours. Here are some simple ways to stay safe during the heatwave:
❄️ **Cool Your Body Quickly**
• Apply cold wet towels, cool water, or ice packs to your wrists, neck, armpits, and ankles.
• Take a **lukewarm shower** rather than an icy one to help your body cool down safely.
• Wear loose, light-coloured clothing made from breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen.
• Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. Exercise, dog walks, and heavy chores are best left until early morning or late evening.
🏡 **Keep Your Home Cool**
• Close windows, blinds, and curtains on sunny sides of your home during the day.
• Open windows wide overnight and early in the morning when temperatures are cooler.
• Place a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles in front of a fan for a refreshing cooling effect.
• Switch off and unplug unnecessary electronics to reduce indoor heat.
• Skip using the oven during peak temperatures and opt for cold meals such as salads.
💧 **Hydrate and Fuel Your Body**
• Drink regularly throughout the day – don't wait until you feel thirsty.
• Water, diluted squash, and lower-fat milk are great choices.
• Limit alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to dehydration.
• Enjoy water-rich foods such as watermelon, strawberries, cucumber, lettuce, and celery.
• Avoid very heavy meals that can increase your body temperature.
⚠️ **Know the Warning Signs**
Look out for symptoms of heat exhaustion:
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Fast heartbeat
• Heavy sweating
If symptoms don't improve within 30 minutes after moving to a cool place and drinking fluids, it could develop into **heatstroke**, which is a medical emergency. Call **999 immediately**.
Please check in on elderly neighbours, vulnerable friends, and anyone living alone. A quick call or visit could make all the difference.
Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe everyone! 💙