During severe hot weather, remember to regularly check the weather and local news reports for any travel disruptions.
It’s important to protect yourself and others in periods of hot weather. Heat and prolonged exposure to the sun can pose health risks for some people, especially those with underlying health conditions.
Outdoors
If you are going outside or travelling, try to avoid the peak hours of the day where UV rays are strongest. This is usually between 11am and 3pm.
Apply sunscreen and keep to shady areas where possible. Drink lots of fluids and take water with you. Wear loose clothing, a hat, and UV-protective sunglasses.
Avoid extreme physical exertion. If you can’t avoid strenuous outdoor activity, such as sport, DIY or gardening, keep it for cooler parts of the day, for example, in the early morning or evening.
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, vulnerable adults, or animals.
Signs of heat-related harm
If you feel dizzy, weak or have intense thirst and a headache, move to a cool place as soon as possible. Drink some water or diluted fruit juice to rehydrate. Avoid excess alcohol.
Most people should start to recover within 30 minutes and if not, you should seek medical help. Call 111 if you feel unusual symptoms, or if symptoms persist.
Call 999 if a person develops any signs of heatstroke as this is a medical emergency.
Schools
Check to see if your child’s school is closed if it gets very hot.
For the latest information on all schools in the borough, please check your school's social media accounts, visit the OpenCheck website, or contact the school directly. OpenCheck is provided through the London Grid for Learning and is updated by schools themselves.
Bonfires
Please do not have bonfires on extremely hot and dry days as this can cause large uncontrollable fires.
Vulnerable people
Keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk this summer. If you’re able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support.
Waste and recycling collection days
We will try and keep to scheduled collections where it is safe to do so during very hot weather.
If your bin has not been collected, leave it out and it will be picked up as soon as it is safe to do so, or you can report a rubbish collection problem.
Pets
Make sure your pets are kept cool and hydrated.
Further information
More advice and information on keeping safe in the summer sun can be found on the NHS webpages.
For the latest weather advice and forecast please visit the Met office website.