Heatwaves

An increase in frequency of heatwaves is one the effects of climate change we have already experienced in the UK. The devastating heatwave across Europe in 2003 led to the launch of the National Heatwave Plan in 2004. The Heat-Health Watch system for England operates during the summer months, with four levels of awareness and appropriate advice.

The DoH publication Heatwave: a guide to looking after yourself and others during hot weather, offers useful advice on how to keep cool during hot weather, and is outlined below.

In the longer term

Use plants and trees in your garden to provide shady areas, and remember to choose plants that will tolerate the wider range of conditions that we expect. Trees on the street and in parks can be a valuable refuge in hot, sunny weather.

Most homes cope well with the usual range of weather, but climate change means that the range will get even broader. You may be able to adapt your property to tolerate the heat better. Reflective or light coloured external surfaces help to keep walls and roofs cool. Extensions or alterations can use materials or methods that help to minimise heat build-up.

Looking after yourself & others during hot weather

In a severe heatwave you may get dehydrated and your body may overheat, leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Both need urgent treatment.

  • The symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, pale skin, and a high temperature. You should move somewhere cool and drink plenty of water or fruit juice. If you can, take a lukewarm shower, or sponge yourself down with cold water.
  • Heatstroke can develop if heat exhaustion is left untreated, but it can also occur suddenly and without warning. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, an intense thirst, sleepiness, hot, red and dry skin, a sudden rise in temperature, confusion, aggression, convulsions and loss of consciousness. Heatstroke can result in irreversible damage to your body, including the brain, or death.
Who is at risk?

The heat can affect anyone, but some people run a greater risk of serious harm. These include:

  • Older people.
  • Babies and young children.
  • People with mental health problems.
  • People on certain medication.
  • People with a serious chronic condition, particularly breathing or heart problems.
  • People who already have a high temperature from an infection.
  • People who use alcohol or illicit drugs.
  • People with mobility problems.
  • People who are physically active, such as manual workers and sportsmen and women.
What should you do?

Mostly it’s a matter of common sense. Listen to your local weather forecast so you know if a heatwave is on the way. Plan ahead to reduce the risk of getting heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

  • Keep out of the heat
  • Stay cool
  • Drink regularly
  • Seek advice if you have any concerns
While waiting for an ambulance
  • If possible, move the person somewhere cooler.
  • Increase ventilation by opening windows or using a fan.
  • Cool them down as quickly as possibly by loosening their clothes, sprinkling them with cold water or wrapping them in a damp sheet.
  • If they are conscious, give them water or fruit juice to drink.
  • Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol.

Taken from Heatwave: a guide to looking after yourself and others during hot weather, produced by the Department of Health.