London is bracing for the hottest recorded week in June, with sweltering temperatures of almost 40°C expected to hit the capital. The heatwave will begin on Monday with temperatures around 28°C, climbing into the thirties on Tuesday and Wednesday, and potentially reaching 40°C on Wednesday. The Met Office has issued a rare red extreme heat warning.
Schools to Remain Open Despite Heat
Despite the extreme heat, schools in the UK are set to remain open. There is no official temperature at which schools are declared unsafe to attend. In contrast, France has already closed more than 800 schools ahead of the blistering heatwave. However, the UK Department for Education advises against closures. Its website states: “During hot weather, we don’t normally advise schools to close. This is because school attendance is the best way for pupils to learn and reach their potential, and hot weather can usually be managed safely.”
Schools will implement adjustments to accommodate the heat. Some will relax uniform policies, allowing children to wear looser clothes, while others will pause strenuous outdoor activities, including PE lessons. Schools are asking pupils to bring water bottles, sun cream, hats, and sunglasses. Teachers and caregivers should monitor for early signs of heatstroke or heat stress, such as unusual irritability, headaches, and dizziness, which can quickly become serious, leading to fainting or delirium.
Keeping Children Cool During the Heatwave
Keeping children hydrated is crucial. Parents should provide plenty of water, ensure children have a refillable water bottle, and remind them to drink regularly. Water-rich foods like lollies, watermelon, cucumbers, jelly, and salad also help. Children should reapply sun cream (at least SPF 30) regularly, especially on ears and necks. The best advice is to keep children indoors between 11am and 3pm when the sun is at its peak. Dress children in loose, light clothing and consider UV-protective clothing for swimming or vulnerable children. Sunhats are essential. The Australian health slogan “slip, slop, slap” advises slipping on a sun-protective shirt, slopping on SPF, and slapping on a hat, plus seeking shade and sliding on sunglasses.
Heatstroke vs. Heat Exhaustion
Heatstroke is dangerous and occurs when the body can no longer cool itself. Symptoms include fainting, seizures, confusion, or cold skin despite high body temperature. If these occur, call 999 or go to A&E. Heat exhaustion, with symptoms like weakness, faintness, or nausea, can usually be managed with first aid.
Workplace Temperature Guidance
For adults, there is no legal maximum temperature for work. General guidance states a minimum temperature of 16°C, or 13°C for strenuous work. The government advises that indoor workplaces must have a reasonable temperature, with clean and fresh air, and employers must provide means for employees to maintain comfort.
