Heat and sun

older adult sitting outdoors in shade in cool clothing drinking water

Top tips to stay safe and well in the heat

General tips for all alert levels

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water or diluted fruit juice, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
  • Keep cool indoors: Close curtains on sun-facing windows, open windows at night when it’s cooler, turn off unused lights and electrical items
  • Dress appropriately: Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes and a sunhat
  • Use sun protection: Apply sunscreen regularly
  • Avoid the sun: Stay out of direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm
  • Avoid strenuous activity: Exercise or do physical tasks in the early morning or evening
  • Take cool showers or baths to lower body temperature

Look after vulnerable people

  • Check on elderly, isolated, ill, or very young individuals
  • Ensure they are staying cool and hydrated
  • Store medicines below 25°C or in the fridge, as required

Travel and outdoor safety

  • Take water with you when travelling
  • Never leave children, pets, or anyone in a parked vehicle
  • Walk in the shade if you must go out
  • Be cautious near water and follow local safety advice

Know the signs of heat illness


Homelessness support


Yellow heat health alert

Risk Level: Low – unlikely to affect most people, but may impact vulnerable groups (elderly, young children)

What you need to do when a yellow heat health warning is issued

  • Stay in the shade or wear a sunhat if outdoors
  • Keep homes cool by shading windows during the day and opening them at night
  • Stay hydrated with water; avoid alcohol and caffeine
  • Use suncream
  • Be aware of signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke

Amber heat health alert

Risk Level: Moderate to High – potential impact on the whole population, especially those over 65 or with health conditions

What you need to do when an amber heat health alert is issued

  • Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
  • Walk in the shade, wear a hat, and apply sunscreen
  • Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day
  • Drink plenty of cool fluids
  • avoid alcohol, caffeine, and hot drinks
  • Take cool showers or baths
  • Keep living spaces cool by closing sun-facing windows and curtains during the day
  • Check on vulnerable individuals
  • Store medicines below 25°C
  • Know the symptoms of heatstroke and call 999 if needed

Red heat health alert

Risk Level: Severe – significant risk to life for the entire population

What you need to do when a red heat health alert is issued

  • Look out for vulnerable people such as older adults, babies and those with health conditions
  • Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol/caffeine
  • Stay indoors during peak sun hours between 11am until 3pm
  • Wear light, loose-fitting clothes
  • Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles
  • Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains and turning off unused electrical appliances
  • Be cautious near water
  • Follow local safety advice and call 999 in emergencies

More information and guidance about staying well in the heat