A hot day can make ordinary activities more demanding, especially for older people, pregnant people and those with certain chronic conditions. Before going out, consider the route, the time of day and where you can rest somewhere cooler.
Carry drinking water when practical, wear suitable light clothing and reduce strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day. Take breaks in shade or a cool indoor space. If you have been given a fluid restriction for heart or kidney disease, follow your individual advice rather than a general water target.
Check on people who may struggle to keep cool or who live alone. Never leave a child or a vulnerable person in a parked vehicle. Some medicines can affect tolerance of heat; ask your clinician or pharmacist about your treatment instead of stopping or changing it yourself.
If someone becomes confused, collapses or has a seizure in the heat, call 112 and begin cooling them while waiting for help. Move them to a cooler place if it is safe. Do not give drinks to someone who is unconscious or cannot swallow safely.
Seek prompt advice for dizziness, weakness, headache or nausea during heat exposure. Call 112 for suspected heatstroke, confusion, collapse or seizures.
This article is general health information and does not replace an individual medical assessment, diagnosis or treatment plan.