The hot weather looks set to continue over the week ahead, and as the temperature soars it is really important that our vulnerable customers stay safe in the sun and keep cool in their homes. To help, our Older Persons’ team has put together the following tips:

Keep your environment cool:

• Keeping your living space cool is especially important
• Place a thermometer in your main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the temperature
• Keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped
• Close curtains that receive morning or afternoon sun
• Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment – they generate heat
• If possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping
• If you have one, use an electrical fan

Stay out of the heat:

• Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
• If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat or light scarf
• Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes

Cool yourself down:

• Drink plenty of cold water and eat cold foods like salads
• Take a cool shower, bath or body wash
• Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck

If you feel unwell, contact your GP.