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Heatwave Safety Tips – Stay Cool, Stay Safe!
Hot weather can be enjoyable, but it can also be risky. Here are some useful tips of how to stay safe during a heatwave:
Keep Cool
- Wear loose and light-coloured clothing
- Take cool showers or baths
- Use a wet cloth or spray bottle to cool off quickly.
- Close curtains and binds to block out the sun
Staying Hydrated
- Sip water regularly - don’t wait until you’re thirsty.
- Avoid sugary or alcoholic drinks
Limit outdoor activity
- Avoid going out during the hottest part of the day (11am–4pm)
- Rest in the shade or indoors often.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity
- Apply sun cream and wear hat and sunglasses for extra protection
Checking In on Others
- Check in on older people, children and those with health conditions.
- Encourage friends and family to stay cool and hydrated too.
Keeping pets safe
- Always provide shade and fresh water
- Never leave pets in cars, conservatories or outbuildings
- Walk dogs in the cooler parts of the day
- Create cool zones for pets - use cool mats, fans, frozen water bottles wrapped in towels, and damp towels over rabbit runs.
- Protect against sunburn - use SPF 30+ pet-safe sun cream on sensitive areas like ears and noses – ask your vet for advice.
Don’t forget garden wildlife - Leave out fresh, clean water for visiting birds, hedgehogs, and other wildlife.
Remember staying cool, hydrated, and connected can help prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
BBQ Safety- enjoy summer and stay safe
Planning a BBQ? Keep safe with these top tips:
General BBQ Tips
- Always barbecue outside on a flat level surface, away from buildings, fences, sheds, trees, or overhanging branches.
- Never leave a lit BBQ unattended, especially around children or pets.
- Only use firelighters or BBQ starter fluid. Never use petrol, paraffin, or other flammable liquids.
- Keep a bucket of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of emergencies.
- Let the BBQ cool down completely before moving or cleaning it.
Using a gas BBQ?
- Check for leaks before using it – brush soapy water on the hose and look for bubbles.
- Always open the lid before lighting
- If the flame goes out, turn off the gas, wait a few minutes before relighting it.