How to prepare for a heatwave UK

Heatwaves UK

Advice and tips for preparing for periods of very hot weather or extreme heat in the UK.

Heatwaves and periods of extreme heat in the UK are becoming more common. Rises in temperature can affect many areas of your life in different ways, from your health to your day-to-day activities. During the summer months, it's important to make sure you are prepared for extended periods of unusually warm weather.

Arrow iconBefore a heatwave

Arrow iconAdvice during a heatwave

Arrow iconHeatwave advice for children and babies

Arrow iconHow to cool your home

Arrow iconHow to stay cool at night

We are usually given a few days warning before a heatwave arrives, so there's time to prepare.

Keep informed and stay alert. Follow weather updates and take heatwave warnings seriously. Check for weather warnings in your area and sign up for the UKHSA Heat Health Alert.

Stock up on food and drinking water. If needed, store water in case there is a problem with your water supply.

Check fridges, freezers, fans, and air conditioning units are working. If you have a ventilation system in your home, check this is switched on and working.

Switch your central heating off.

Check on friends, neighbours, relatives. Make sure they are aware of the risks and help them prepare.

Babies and children, those with underlying health issues, and elderly people are at particular risk during hot weather. Find out if anyone you know or care for will need additional support.

Ensure you have enough medication and you know how to store it in hot temperatures.

A chronic illness, such as a heart, lung, or kidney problem, may get worse in hot weather. Consult your doctor about how best to cope during a heatwave. Call 999 in an emergency.

Look after your health in a heatwave, so plan ahead to reduce the risk. Stock up on items you may need like sunscreen and rehydration tablets.

Outdoor activities like like swimming in open water, can be dangerous in hot weather. Learn basic first aid skills to treat burns, heat exhaustion, and spot heat stroke to help in an emergency.

Vehicles can be affected by high temperatures and long periods of hot weather. To stay safe on the road, check your tyres, fluid levels, battery, and air conditioning work. Carry water in your car in case of a breakdown.

Know who to contact in an emergency. You can call NHS 111 for medical advice or 999 in an emergency. Download the British Red Cross emergency app for more information.

When the hot weather arrives, take steps to keep yourself safe and minimise the impact on your health.

Children and babies are more vulnerable to increases in temperatures. Pay extra attention to how they are feeling during hot weather.

One in five homes in England are likely to overheat. Here's how to keep your house cool.

During a heatwave temperatures can often remain higher than usual at night.

Make sure you:

Heatwaves have become more common. Understand why extreme heat is a danger and the ways you could be affected including droughts and wildfires.

Get first aid tips for common health problems during heatwaves.

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