Staying safe in hot weather

The local NHS is asking people to take simple steps to stay safe and well when the weather is hot.

Lots of people enjoy warm weather, but it can also make people ill. Older people, young children, pregnant women and people with long-term health problems are more likely to become unwell in hot weather.

When it’s hot outside, you should always:

• Drink plenty of water
• Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (usually between 11am and 3pm)
• Wear loose, light clothes
• Always wear sunscreen – SPF30+ is best
• Keep your home as cool as possible. Close curtains and blinds during the day to help with this. Open windows when it gets cooler outside
• Check on older family members, friends and neighbours
• Stock up on medicines that can help keep you well, such as pain killers and medicines for hay fever and insect bites
• Speak to a pharmacist for help and advice for minor illnesses
• Use NHS 111 online or call 111 for urgent health advice
• Always call 999 for life-threatening emergencies

You can get help and advice for lots of things at pharmacies now. They can even give medicines where needed for seven common health problems.

Visit our Pharmacy First webpage to find out what they can help with or use the ‘find a pharmacy’ tool online to find your closest store.