Heatwaves
The extreme heat of a heatwave can be seriously damaging to the health, and can sometimes be fatal. Find information about who is at risk and advice about what to do in case of a heatwave.
- Steps to take during a heatwave
Find out how you can help yourself and others stay cool during hot weather.
- What symptoms should you look out for?
Two main conditions can be caused by extremes of heat; heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Find out what the symptoms are for each of these.
- When should you seek advice?
Are you suffering from symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke?
- Who is at risk during a heatwave?
When temperatures remain abnormally high over more than a couple of days, excessive heat can prove fatal. In one hot spell in London in August 2003, deaths among people aged over 75 rose by 60 per cent.
- The Department of Health Heatwave Plan
Provides appropriate support and care during a heatwave. Find out more about the heatwave plan in place.
