How the LRF responds

Heatwave

The purpose of the plan is to inform staff of the action required under different levels of 'Alert' declared by the Department of Health (DH) in its 'National Heatwave Plan' issued in May 2006.

"Extreme heat is dangerous to everyone. During a heatwave, when temperature remains abnormally high over more than a couple of days, it can prove fatal, particularly among certain at-risk groups. In one hot spell in London in 2003, deaths among people over 75 rose by 60%."

"Climate change means heatwaves are likely to become more common in England by the 2080’s and it is predicted that an event similar to that experienced in 2003 will happen every year."

"…during relatively mild heatwaves, death rates are significantly, but avoidably, raised in this country. Timely preventive measures can reduce these excess rates".

(Heatwave plan for England, DH, 2006)

What you can do:

Before a heatwave

• Ensure you have plenty of cold fluids available.

During a heatwave

• Try to keep your house cool; closing blinds or curtains can help.
• At night, keep your sleeping area well ventilated. Night cooling is important as it allows the body to recuperate.
• Try to stay cool by taking cool showers or baths and/or sprinkle yourself several times a day with cold water.
• Avoid too much exercise, which can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke, and can even be fatal. Watch for signs of heat stress — an early sign is fatigue.
• Drink plenty of fluids, but not alcohol, which dehydrates the body.
• Try to eat as you normally would. Not eating properly may exacerbate health-related problems.
• If driving, keep your vehicle well ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Take plenty of water with you and have regular rest breaks.
• If you have elderly neighbours who may be at risk during a heatwave, try to visit them daily.
• If you do go out, try and avoid the hottest part of the day (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and seek shade where possible. Avoid being in the sun for long stretches.

Before going out in the sun

• Check you have appropriate sun cream for your particular type of skin.

During sunny weather

• The UV index (the strength of the sun) can be high at many times of the year — it doesn't have to be hot. The UV index can be strong through cloud even when the sun isn't directly shining.
• If you go out, wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing, high factor sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
• Avoid being in the sun for long stretches.
• Reapply an appropriate factor sun cream at regular intervals during the day.

Do not leave children or animals in parked cars. Even on cool days, strong sunshine can make car interiors very hot.

Download the Local Resilience Forum Heatwave plan [Adobe PDF document, 62 KB]
Download the Department of Health Heatwave plan [Adobe PDF document, 543 KB]

To learn more about the risks of severe weather click here.

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