What to do in case of a heatwave
Whilst most of us enjoy sunny weather, the extreme heat of a heatwave can be seriously damaging to the health, and can sometimes be fatal. This article provides information about who is at risk during a heatwave, and advice about what to do in case of a heatwave.
Who is at risk during a heatwave?
Whilst extreme heat is dangerous to everyone it is especially so to babies and young children, older people, those living in care homes, and those in certain at-risk groups.
When temperatures remain abnormally high over more than a couple of days, excessive heat can prove fatal. In one hot spell in London in August 2003, deaths among people aged over 75 rose by 60 per cent.
The Chief Medical Officer has said,
'Although severe heatwaves are uncommon in England, the experience across Northwest Europe in 2003 is a reminder that heat can be fatal, or at the very least can cause unnecessary discomfort.
The elderly are particularly vulnerable and it is important that those aged over 75, especially those who live alone or in care homes, take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke. If you care for people who could be at risk during a heatwave, it's important that you plan ahead - taking action in advance can help reduce the number of excess deaths from heat.'
Those at particular risk during a heatwave include:
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older people, especially those over 75 years old and living on their own, or in a care home;
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people suffering from mental ill health, those with dementia, and those who rely on help from other people to manage day-to-day activities;
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people who are bed-bound or have mobility problems;
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people taking certain types of medication;
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people with a serious chronic condition, particularly breathing or heart problems;
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people who already have a high temperature from an infection;
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people who use alcohol or illicit drugs;
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babies and young children, especially under four years old;
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people who are physically active such as manual workers, or sportsmen and women
What symptoms should you look out for?
In a severe heatwave the body can overheat and dehydrate, leading to heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
If you are suffering from heat exhaustion you should move somewhere cool and drink plenty of water or fruit juice. If possible, take a lukewarm shower, or sponge yourself with cold water.
If heat exhaustion is left untreated, heatstroke can develop, but it can also occur suddenly and without warning.
Symptoms of heatstroke include:
Heatstroke can result in irreversible damage to the body, including the brain, or death.
Steps to take during a heatwave
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Listen to bulletins on radio and television and follow health advice.
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If a heatwave is forecast, try to plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat.
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If you can’t avoid strenuous activity like sport, DIY, or gardening, keep it for the cooler parts of the day such as early morning.
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If you must go out, stay in the shade. Wear a hat and light loose fitting clothes, preferably cotton. If you will be outside for some time, take plenty of water with you.
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If you can, stay inside, in the coolest rooms in the house. Close curtains in rooms that get a lot of sun. Keep windows closed while the room is cooler that it is outside and open them when the temperature inside rises, and at night for ventilation.
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Take cool showers or baths and splash yourself several times a day with cold water, particularly your face and the back of your neck.
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Eat as you normally would. Drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Water and fruit juice are best. Try to eat more cold food, particularly salads and fruit, which contain water. Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee.
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Older people are much more prone to the effects of heat. You can help older relatives or neighbours by checking on them, if possible, every day, and reminding them to drink plenty and often. They should have a mixture of drinks including fruit juice and water. Help them to keep their house as cool as possible, drawing curtains, opening windows at night, or using a fan if necessary.
When should you seek advice?
Contact your doctor, a pharmacist if you have any unusual symptoms during a heatwave, especially if you are taking medication.
You can also contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or visit NHS Direct website for advice.
Watch out for cramp in the arms, legs or stomach, feelings of mild confusion, weakness or problems sleeping.
If you do have these symptoms, rest for several hours, keep cool and drink plenty of water or fruit juice.
Seek medical advice if any of these symptoms get worse or do not go away.
Remember heatstroke can kill. It can develop rapidly and suddenly lead to unconsciousness. If you suspect someone has heatstroke call 999 immediately.
The links below may prove useful
