Paramedics in the UK are urging the public to avoid five common but potentially deadly mistakes during the ongoing heatwave, with one tip likely to surprise many: never jump into open water to cool down.
Dehydration warning: don't wait until you're thirsty
A West Midlands Ambulance Service worker said: "Think you know how to stay safe in a heatwave? Here are the top five mistakes to avoid. Number five, waiting until you feel thirsty. By the time you feel thirsty you're already starting to get dehydrated. Keep sipping fluids and water throughout the day even if you're not feeling thirsty."
Avoid midday sun, heat exhaustion risk
Another ambulance worker advised: "The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm. Even if you feel fine, too much heat can quickly lead to heat exhaustion."
Surprising danger: open water swimming
The paramedic explained: "Rivers, lakes and reservoirs hide a lot of dangers and are surprisingly cold even during a heatwave. The sudden temperature change can trigger cold water shock which can be fatal. No lifeguard, no swimming."
Never leave children or pets in parked cars
"Number two, leaving children or pets in parked cars. Even if it's only for a few minutes, the temperature inside a car can rise dangerously fast. It can become life-threatening much quicker than people realise."
Check on vulnerable people
"And number one, forgetting to check on vulnerable people. Older adults, babies and people with health conditions are more likely to become seriously unwell in the heat. A quick phone call or knock on the door can make a real difference. Most heat-related emergencies are preventable."
RNLI advice: float to live
Ross Macleod, RNLI Water Safety Manager, said: "As the exceedingly hot weather continues, we are urging families to talk about the dangers of swimming and jumping into open water – this could be a conversation that saves lives. Cold water shock is a real danger, which we particularly want people to be aware of. The sea or open water may look inviting during hot weather, but it remains cold enough year-round to trigger cold water shock, which can cause uncontrollable gasping, increased heart rate, and can lead to panic and drowning very quickly. It's best to enter the water slowly to gradually acclimatise."
Anyone who finds themselves in danger should "fight the panic instinct and Float to Live – try to relax and float on their back, with head tilted back, gently moving their hands and legs to help them stay afloat. This buys valuable time to get your breathing back under control, before then calling for help or swimming to safety."
If you see someone else in danger: "Do not enter the water yourself as you could also end up in serious difficulty. Instead, remember phone, float, throw – phone 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard; tell the struggling person to float; throw them something buoyant, like a life ring."
The RNLI recommends visiting a lifeguarded beach and swimming between the red and yellow flags. If that's not possible, check weather and tide times and read local safety signage.
