Heatwave - advice on staying well

Protective Measures

1.

Keep cool.

2.

Stay out of the heat and keep out of the sun between 11.00 hrs and 15.00 hrs.

3.

If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sun sunscreen, and wear a hat and light scarf.

4.

Avoid extreme physical exertion.

5.

Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes.

6.

Cool yourself down.

7.

Have plenty of cold drinks, preferably water and fruit juice, avoiding caffeine and alcohol.

8.

Monitor daily fluid intake, particularly if your customer has several carers or is not able to drink unaided.

9.

Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with high water content.

10.

Take a cool shower, bath, or body wash.

11.

Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck.

12.

Keep your environment cool.

13.

Place a thermometer in the main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the temperature.

14.

Keep windows and curtains at windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day whilst temperatures outside are higher than inside, and open windows and curtains at night when the temperature has dropped.

15.

Take care with metal blinds and dark curtains as these can absorb heat. Consider replacing or putting reflective material in between them and the window space.

16.

Consider purchasing a fan particularly in the environment is difficult to keep cool.

17.

Consider putting up external shading outside windows.

18.

Have your loft and cavity walls insulated as this keeps the heat in when it is cold and out when it is hot.

19.

Use pale, reflective external paints.

20

Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment as these generate heat.

21

Grow trees and leafy plants near windows to act as natural air conditioners.

22

Keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air.

23

If possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping.

24

Look out for others.

25

Keep an eye on the isolated, elderly (frail), ill, or very young and make sure they are able to keep cool.

26

Ensure that babies, children or elderly people are not left alone in stationary cars.

27

Check on elderly or sick neighbours, family or friends every day during a heatwave.

28

Be alert and call the Bluebird Care Rushcliffe & Melton office, a doctor, or social services if someone is unwell or further help is needed.