The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a call for people to check on their neighbours during the summer months, as the Met Office forecasts an increased chance of heatwaves. In a blog post, the government body highlighted the health risks associated with high temperatures, urging everyone to look out for those who may be more vulnerable.
Vulnerable Groups at Higher Risk
Anyone can be affected by high temperatures, but some individuals are more susceptible. The UKHSA warned: "Heat exhaustion and heatstroke are serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, so it’s worth knowing the signs to look out for and how to respond." The agency recommends regular check-ins with family, friends, and neighbours who may be at higher risk, and advises those at risk to ask others to do the same.
Current Heatwave Conditions
The warning is particularly timely this week, as many parts of the UK experience their third heatwave of the year. In a blog post shared on Wednesday, July 8, the Met Office stated: "Temperatures are expected to climb into the mid-30s across parts of the UK this week as hot, settled conditions continue." The UKHSA advises checking on neighbours by asking if they are okay or requesting regular check-ins to ensure safety.
Tips to Stay Cool
To help people cope with the heat, the UKHSA shared several tips. They recommend staying out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, applying high-protection sunscreen regularly, wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and seeking shade. Indoors, they advise keeping curtains closed in rooms that face the sun during the day, opening windows when the air outside feels cooler than inside (such as at night), and ensuring airflow through the home.
When to Seek Medical Help
The NHS website advises contacting NHS 111 if you or someone else has symptoms of heat exhaustion and needs advice. In cases of heatstroke, call 999 immediately. The NHS explains: "Heat exhaustion does not usually need emergency medical help if you can cool down within 30 minutes. If it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency."
