NHS and TfLOffer Heatwave Advice

Staying safe while temperatures rise

Very hot weather is expected this week and the NHS is urging people to take extra care of themselves and look out for anyone who may be more at risk from the effects of the heat.

Advice for being safe in the heat includes:

* Try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm.
* Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection, wear a wide brimmed hat and light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. This should minimise the risk of sunburn.
* Drink lots of cool drinks and when travelling ensure you take water with you. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
* Look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses.
* Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially older people, infants, young children or animals.
* If medicines are sensitive to temperature it may be worth keeping them in the fridge
* Children should not take part in vigorous physical activity on very hot days, such as when temperatures are above 30°C.
* Take early action – seek advice from your local pharmacy if you have a long-term health condition and are starting to feel unwell before it gets more serious.

For more information visit www.nhs.uk/heatwave.

TfL gives the following advice to customers travelling during the summer months:

• Carry water with you at all times, to stay hydrated
• Don't board a train or bus if you feel unwell
• If you feel unwell, please get off at the next stop and contact a member of staff at the next station or speak to the bus driver
• Where possible, consider retiming journeys to less busy times

Londoners can access free drinking water from more than 2,500 cafes, shops and businesses offering free tap water through the Refill London scheme, with participating outlets putting easily identifiable Refill stickers in their windows. 

July 24, 2019