The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a reminder for families to avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm during the summer holidays, as the Met Office predicts higher-than-usual temperatures. The advice is part of broader guidance to help people stay safe in hot weather and protect their health.
UKHSA Warns of Heat Health Alerts
The UKHSA warned that further heat health alerts could be issued throughout the summer as temperatures rise. Children and older adults are most vulnerable, but the agency noted: “Anyone can be affected by particularly high temperatures and spending time outdoors, travelling and taking part in sports and other activities can increase the risk of becoming unwell if simple precautions are not taken.”
The 11am to 3pm Rule
A key recommendation is to avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm, when UV levels are highest. The UKHSA said: “If you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly.” This aligns with NHS advice, which states: “Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.”
Additional UKHSA Recommendations
The UKHSA also provided other tips for staying safe in the heat:
- Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun.
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- If you are going to do a physical activity (e.g., exercising or walking the dog), plan to do these during cooler times of the day, such as the morning or evening.
- Check weather forecasts to see when it will be cooler.
- Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them.
Water Safety Advice
The UKHSA also stressed the importance of being safe in water. Recommendations include:
- Supervise children closely at all times.
- Swim at lifeguarded locations whenever possible.
- Enter the water slowly to allow your body to adjust to the temperature.
- Be aware that open water is usually much colder than it looks.
- Leave the water immediately if you begin to feel cold or unwell.
- Always swim with others and look out for each other.
- Swim parallel to the shore rather than away from it.
- Wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid when taking part in activities such as boating, paddleboarding, kayaking or fishing.
- Carry a means of calling for help whenever possible. If heading out alone, tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
- If you get into difficulty in the water, Float to Live by tilting your head back, floating on your back and controlling your breathing until help arrives or you are able to swim to safety.
The agency added: “If you see someone in difficulty in the water, call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard if at the coast.”
Expert Comment
Professor Robin May, chief scientific officer at UKHSA, commented: “As schools break up for the summer holidays and families spend more time outdoors, we want everyone to enjoy the warmer weather safely. Simple steps such as staying hydrated, keeping out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, wearing sunscreen and staying aware of the signs of heat exhaustion can help prevent illness during periods of hot weather. As a parent I know how tempting it can be for young people to cool off and have fun with their friends in open water, but we know just how tragically this can end. If you’re a parent or guardian, please speak to children about the risks of swimming in open water and follow the advice from our partners such as the Royal Life Saving Society UK.”
