How to Cope in Hot Weather

Advice and Information - 23 June 2026

With the recent news of an Amber Heat Health Alert for North East England and more serious red alerts for southern England, how can you take steps to cope and protect others in periods of very hot and humid weather?

We're sharing some tips from the NHS, the Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency to help our communities.

Who's Most At Risk? 

The NHS defines those most at risk during heat waves or period of hot weather include: 

  • Older adults and young children are especially vulnerable to heat, particularly people aged 65+ and children under 5.
  • People with long-term health conditions (such as heart, lung, kidney, neurological, mental health, or substance dependency issues) face a higher risk of heat-related illness.
  • People who are isolated, already unwell, dehydrated, or taking multiple medications may be less able to cope with hot weather and are at greater risk.
  • People who spend long periods outdoors, including those who are homeless, physically active, or work in manual labour, are more exposed to dangerous heat levels.

How to Stay Safe During Hot Weather

While many people enjoy warmer summer weather, hot weather can cause some people to become unwell through overheating, dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Here's some advice from the government about keeping safe; 

  • Stay cool indoors and outdoors by keeping your home shaded, avoiding direct sunlight, and seeking shade when outside.
  • Plan activities for cooler times of day, such as early morning or evening, and avoid strenuous activity during peak heat.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by drinking plenty of fluids, limiting alcohol, wearing suitable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and regularly applying sunscreen.
  • Look after yourself and others by checking on vulnerable people and knowing the signs and first aid for heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

How Can We Keep Cool? 

Having spaces to keep cool and take shade, avoiding that direct sunlight when needed is crucial to staying cool and keeping safe. Here's some MET office tips on keeping cool. 

  • Stay cool indoors: Close curtains in rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler. Counter intuitively, closing doors and windows in the heat of the day can keep it cooler inside.
  • Adapt Clothing where you can: Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat and wear lighter loose fitting clothing - but ensure you wear sunscreen if going outside!
  • Take Care in Waters: Cooling down in the sea, maybe appealing but if you are going into any open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice.
  • Try a Cool Shower: If you've spent any time outside, a cool shower when returning home could be an option or put cool water on your skin or clothes.