Hot Weather Advice

Be Prepared for Hot Weather

Summer temperatures in Northern Ireland can be a risk to health. It is important to make sure you and those you care for are suitably hydrated.

Dehydration can cause significant health problems and lead to death in extreme cases. Young children and the elderly are most at risk. They may be unaware of becoming overheated and not drinking enough liquids to stay hydrated.

If you are worried about the summer heat you can find information on the Met Office website. Organisations like Age NI have useful tips on how to stay cool in summer.

You can follow some simple guidelines to stay fit and well during a long warm spell:

• try to stay out of the sun, particularly when it is at its highest between 11.00 am and 3.00 pm

• stock up on supplies like medicines, food and non-alcoholic drinks, so you won’t have to go out in the heat

• keep your home cool - shutting windows when it's hotter outside than inside may help

• open your windows at night - when it's cooler

• keep drinking fluids

• do strenuous outdoor activities, like DIY or gardening during cooler parts of the day, like early morning

• keep alcohol drinking to a minimum - it dehydrates the body

• avoid heavy and hot food; modify your diet to include plenty of fruit and salad as this helps keep you hydrated

• use a sun cream with a high sun protection factor - also known as 'SPF' - for protection from the sun's harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation -  SPF 15 or greater is advised with a UVA Rating of at least 4 stars - Reducing exposure to UV rays(external link opens in a new window / tab)

• wear light, loose-fitting clothing, such as cotton, so sweat can evaporate

• if you feel sick or dizzy, keep out of the sun and seek medical advice

You must also take care of pets during warm weather. Make sure they have plenty of ventilation and liquid to stay hydrated.

For more tips and advice about keeping your house cool, taking care with food, bins, waste and pets visit the nidirect website.