Hot Weather Safety Guide

 Safety Guidelines for Maintaining Health and Well-being During High Temperatures

Stay hydrated in high temperatures

As temperatures soar this weekend, health authorities nationwide recommend everyone take precautions to stay safe and healthy during the heat.

Stay Safe and Well this Summer** webpage features a plethora of tips for individuals of all ages, aiding in staying cool and well-hydrated during the heatwave.

The webpage also presents guidance on home and personal safety and directs individuals to further summer-related resources, including:

• Summer health** – NHS recommendations for remaining healthy throughout the summer season
• Heatwave guidance** – tips to prevent the heat from affecting you or people you care about
• Insect bites and stings** – advice on what to do if you suffer an insect bite or sting
• Skin care** – recommendations for being ‘sun smart’ to help mitigate the risk of skin cancer
• Leisure safety** – insights and guidelines concerning water safety, camping, and fireworks.

What makes a heatwave hazardous?

The primary dangers associated with a heatwave encompass:

•  Insufficient water intake (dehydration)
•  Overheating, which can exacerbate conditions for individuals with pre-existing heart or respiratory issues
•  Heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Strategies for managing hot weather

•  Be vigilant for others, particularly the elderly, young children, infants, and those with existing health issues
•  Close curtains in sun-facing rooms to maintain lower temperatures indoors, and keep in mind that outdoor air may be cooler
•  Consume plenty of water since sugary, alcoholic, and caffeinated beverages can increase dehydration
•  Never leave anyone in a sealed, parked vehicle, especially infants, toddlers, or pets
•      Avoid direct sunlight between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

•  Exercise caution and heed local safety instructions if going into water for relief
• - Walk in shaded areas, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat if you must venture out in the heat
• Steer clear of physically demanding tasks during the hottest parts of the day. 
• Wear loose-fitting, light cotton clothing.
• When traveling, make sure to have water.

“With temperatures elevated this weekend, we highly encourage residents to care for one another during the heat. Heat exhaustion and heatstroke can become serious if not treated promptly, particularly for our youngest and oldest populations, or those with chronic illnesses.

“Our ‘Stay Safe and Well this Summer’ webpages offer a wealth of information and advice to help you remain healthy while enjoying sunny weather.  .I encourage anyone looking for summertime health advice to look through these pages.

River safety

On a warm day, it might seem appealing to cool off in natural waters. However, because of the numerous concealed hazards beneath the surface, it is highly advised to avoid going into the water.  Here are some safety pointers:

•  Pay attention to warning and advisory signs – water conditions can fluctuate rapidly
•  Swim parallel to the shoreline, rather than away from it, and avoid being swept away by currents
•  Exit the water immediately if you start feeling cold
• Alcohol and swimming should never be combined
•  When walking or jogging, stay clear of the water's edge and maintain distance from individuals not in your household while supervising children at all times
•  Refrain from using airbeds in open waters where they may drift into deeper areas and become unstable
• Enter the water only in areas with adequate rescue gear and supervision.
•  Wear appropriate safety gear – for example, life jackets or helmets while canoeing
•  Do not jump or dive into natural waters unless you are confident about the depth and the absence of submerged risks
• Acquiring knowledge in first aid, rescue, and resuscitation techniques could potentially save a life
• Always keep children under close supervision of a responsible adult, ensuring small children remain within arm's reach. HEALTH AND SUPPLEMENTS