Extreme Summer Weather: How to Stay Safe
☀️ Heatwaves & Extreme Sun
Short tips for staying safe during periods of intense heat.
🔥 Stay Out of the Sun (11am–3pm)
Avoid going outside during the hottest hours. Seek shade or stay indoors.
👕 Wear Light, Loose Clothing
Use breathable fabrics like cotton. Light colours reflect heat.
🧴 Use High-Factor Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Reapply every 2 hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
🧢 Wear a Hat & Sunglasses
Protect your head, face and eyes from sun exposure.
🚪 Keep Curtains Closed in Sunny Rooms
Use light-coloured blinds or curtains to reflect heat.
💧 Drink Water Regularly
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks. Don’t wait to feel thirsty.
🧊 Take Cool Showers or Use Damp Cloths
Help reduce body temperature and avoid overheating.
🧍♀️ Look Out for Others
Check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, family or friends.
Recognising Heat Illness
Learn the signs and act early:
| Condition | Symptoms | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Exhaustion | Headache, dizziness, nausea, heavy sweating, fast pulse | Move to a cool place, rehydrate, rest |
| Heatstroke | Confusion, no sweating, hot skin, unconsciousness | Call 999 – this is a medical emergency! |
Stay Informed
- 💬 Sign up for local alerts from your council or the Met Office.
- 📻 Listen to local radio for updates.
- 📱 Download the Met Office app
If You’re Travelling
- 🕐 Avoid peak heat hours.
- 🚗 Never leave children, elderly people or pets in parked cars.
- 🌡️ Check vehicles are road-ready: fluids, tyres, AC.
Emergency Contact
If someone becomes seriously unwell, call 999 immediately.
Extreme Summer Weather: Other Risks
🔥 Wildfire Risk
- 🚭 Never drop cigarettes or glass bottles outdoors.
- 🚫 Don’t light BBQs or campfires in open countryside or parks.
- 📞 Report wildfires immediately: Call 999 and ask for Fire Service.
⚡ Sudden Storms & Flash Flooding
- 🌧️ Be alert after long dry spells – sudden heavy rain increases flood risk.
- ⚠️ Don’t walk or drive through floodwater – 30cm can move a car.
- 🏠 If flooding is likely:
- Move valuables upstairs.
- Prepare a grab bag with medication, documents, torch, etc.
- Follow alerts from the Environment Agency:
- See our Flooding Page.
🐕 Animals & Pets
- 🐶 Never leave pets in cars – even with windows open.
- 💧 Make sure animals have constant access to water and shade.
🏥 Helping Vulnerable People
- Many older adults, children, and people with medical conditions may not realise they are overheating.
- Offer to help:
- Check room temperatures.
- Offer cold drinks.
- Share this guide.
- Wraysbury & Horton Resilience will endeavour to help our most vulnerable residents. Please ensure they are registered with us.
✅ Quick Safety Checklist (More comprehensive list in our Keep Your Cool Flyer)
| Task | Done? ✅ |
|---|---|
| Curtains/blinds drawn on sunny side | |
| Cold drinks available | |
| Fan positioned for airflow | |
| Pets shaded and watered | |
| Neighbour/family checked in on | |
| Local alerts received (text/email) |
