What to do during the hot weather – top tips!

1. Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excessive alcohol

Staying well-hydrated with appropriate fluids is crucial for maintaining health and preventing heat-related illnesses during hot weather. On the other hand, excessive alcohol consumption poses significant risks due to its dehydrating effects and its potential to impair your body’s natural heat-regulating mechanisms.

2. Limit physical activity to cooler parts of the day, such as mornings or evenings.

Exercising during the cooler parts of the day in hot weather is crucial for minimising health risks, maintaining optimal performance, and ensuring safety and comfort. This approach helps to protect against heat-related illnesses, cardiovascular stress, dehydration, and other complications associated with high temperatures.

3. When out in direct sun, wear sunscreen and take regular breaks indoors or in a shady place to cool down.

Wearing sunscreen and taking regular breaks in shaded or indoor areas during hot weather are critical for protecting against UV radiation, preventing heat-related illnesses, maintaining hydration, and ensuring overall comfort and safety. These practices help to safeguard your skin, eyes, and overall health, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities safely and comfortably, even in hot conditions.

4. If you get too hot, take a cold bath or shower.

Taking a cold bath or shower when you get too hot offers multiple benefits, including effective body cooling, prevention of heat-related illnesses, skin and circulatory benefits, psychological uplift, practical convenience, and enhanced sleep and comfort. These benefits make cold showers a valuable tool for maintaining health and well-being in hot weather conditions.

5. Wear light-coloured, loose fitting clothes.

Wearing light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing in hot weather is crucial for effective temperature regulation, preventing heat-related illnesses, enhancing comfort, managing moisture, protecting against UV rays, and providing practical and aesthetic benefits. This type of clothing helps maintain a cooler body temperature, reduces the risk of skin irritation and dehydration, and offers a comfortable and versatile option for coping with the challenges of hot weather. By choosing the right clothing, you can enjoy better health, comfort, and overall well-being in high temperatures.

For further guidance on dealing with the hot weather, refer to the NHS website:

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather