Yellow Heat – Health Alert until 19th June

The Met Office have extended their yellow heat-health alert to 09:00 on 19 June 2023. Please ensure you are familiar with the DfE’s guidance on: Looking after children and those in early years settings during heatwaves: for teachers and professionals. Please ensure all of your frontline staff are aware of the signs of heat-related illness

Other key actions:

Please refer to the DfE’s advice on “Beat the heat: hot weather advice”. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/beat-the-heat-hot-weather-advice/beat-the-heat-staying-safe-in-hot-weather#:

How to keep cool during hot weather

  • Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol and take water with you if you’re travelling
  • Familiarise yourself with the NHS tips on how to cope in hot weather.
  • Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, when the UV rays are the strongest.
  • If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat and light scarf.
  • Avoid physical exertion during the hottest parts of the day.
  • Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content
  • Take a cool shower, bath or body wash


How to help others during hot weather

  • Be aware of the signs of heatstroke and heat exhaustion, and when to get help.
  • Look out for friends, family and neighbours, particularly older people and young children who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated.


How to keep your home cool during hot weather

  • Shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight – external shutters or shades are very effective, while internal blinds or curtains are less effective but cheaper and easier to install.
  • Take a break from the heat by moving to a cooler part of the house (especially for sleeping).
  • Check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly (fans may provide some relief, if temperatures are below 35°C).
  • Open windows (when it’s safe to do so) when the air feels cooler outside than inside; for example, at night to try to get air flowing through the home.
  • Check that central heating is turned off.
  • Turn off lights and electrical equipment that is not in use.
  • Get further tips on health and hot weather from the UK Government


Travelling on public transport during hot weather

The hot weather can also affect travel. Before you travel check TfL for travel alerts and National Rail travel alerts as trains may be running a reduced speeds. Try to carry a bottle of water with you. You can find free drinking water at thousands of locations with Refill London.