How to Keep Safe During A Heatwave

This June, temperatures are reaching highs of 33°C, making for the hottest days of the year. Although it is fantastic to have such wonderful weather, it is important to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. Over 75s are categorised as most at risk from harm during a heatwave. The most common consequences are dehydration, overheating or heatstroke. Luckily, we have compiled some top tips for keeping yourself and others safe during the heatwave.

Stay Indoors Where Possible

Those who are particularly high risk should try and stay cool indoors where they can. The best ways to keep your house cool are to close the curtains, make use of fans and open windows. The most dangerous time of day in terms of heat exposure is between 11am and 3pm, so make sure you avoid the sun during this time. If you are struggling to sleep at night, you may want to think about relocating your bed downstairs. Heat rises and therefore downstairs will be the coolest place in the house.

Drink Plenty of Fluids

We cannot stress this enough. The hotter it is, the more your body sweats. The more your body sweats, the more water and salts the body loses. During a heatwave, you have to compensate for this loss by drinking more water. Drinks that are high in caffeine or other stimulants are not appropriate for rehydration. Naturally, water is the best option.

Symptoms such as headaches, passing less urine than normal, or dizziness are all signs that the body is starting to become dehydrated. Anything like irrational behaviour, sunken eyes or a rapid pulse could indicate that the dehydration has worsened and you need to take action as soon as possible.

Cool Yourself Down Regularly

If you feel yourself getting too hot, then it is important to take action and try to cool yourself down. Taking cool baths and showers can help regulate your body heat. You should also avoid strenuous exercise or drinking excessive alcohol. Make sure you wear light-coloured clothing as this will help keep you cool; dark clothing will absorb more heat.

How to Cool Someone Down

If someone around you is too hot or you suspect that they have heatstroke, follow these steps:

• Move them to a cool place.
• Lie them down and slightly raise their feet.
• Get them to drink plenty of water.
• Cool their skin - use a spray, or sponge cool water on them, or a cool pack around the armpits or neck.
• Stay with them until they are better.

If they do not start to cool down or feel better within 30 minutes, then you need to call 999. Heatstroke can be very serious if not treated quickly.

Signs of Heatstroke:

• Not sweating even though they are hot.
• A temperature of 40°C or above.
• Fast breathing or shortness of breath.
• Feeling confused.
• Fitting (seizure).
• Loss of consciousness.
• Non-responsive.

Enjoy The Heatwave Safely

We understand that the nice weather may tempt you to stay out in the sunshine or enjoy some drinks with loved ones. As long as you remember to keep cool and safe and look out for those who are most at risk during a heatwave, you should be fine. Remember that social distancing measures are still in place so don't go to overcrowded beaches or parks.

Keep Your Elderly Loved Ones Safe All Year Round

A Careline alarm can provide year-round protection for your loved ones in their home, come rain or shine. You will have peace of mind knowing that they can get help when they need it most. Our Customer Service Team are available to answer questions or place orders, just call on 0800 101 3333. Alternatively, fill in the Contact form on our website. You can also order a Careline alarm online whenever you're ready.