Stay Well Summer

Summer brings longer days, warmer weather and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. But it also comes with risks like heat, dehydration, and sunburn. Whether you’re heading out on holiday, enjoying time at home, or looking after loved ones, it’s important to take simple steps to stay healthy and safe.

Sun and heat safety

Spending time outside is one of the joys of summer, but it’s important to protect yourself and others from too much sun and heat.

  • Stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm when the sun is strongest

  • Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and reapply regularly, especially after swimming or sweating

  • Wear protective clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses

  • Keep cool indoors during extreme heat by closing curtains and using fans where possible

  • Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty

  • Look out for heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, especially in babies, young children, and older people

  • Treat insect bites with pharmacy-recommended creams, and seek medical advice if bites become red, swollen, or painful

Staying hydrated

Hydration is vital to your health, especially during hot weather.

  • Drink water regularly throughout the day

  • Avoid too much alcohol or caffeine, as these can make you more dehydrated

  • Make sure babies, children, and older adults have enough to drink, as they can be more vulnerable to dehydration

  • Look out for signs of dehydration, including dark urine, dizziness, or headaches

Allergy and asthma management

Summer pollen, dust, and heat can make allergies and asthma worse.

  • Take prescribed medicines regularly, even if you feel well

  • Carry your reliever inhaler if you have asthma

  • Keep windows closed during high pollen days

  • Check pollen counts and plan outdoor activities when levels are lower

  • Speak to your pharmacist for advice about over-the-counter allergy treatments

Know where to go if you feel unwell

Getting the right care at the right time helps you stay safe and avoid unnecessary trips to busy services.

  • If you are unsure what to do, visit 111.nhs.uk or call NHS 111 for advice

  • Visit your local pharmacy first for minor conditions such as hay fever, insect bites, or sunburn

  • Minor injuries units (MIUs) and urgent treatment centres can help with conditions like sprains and burns – call 111 to book an appointment before you go

  • Always call 999 for life-threatening emergencies

BBQ and water safety

Summer fun often involves barbecues and swimming, but accidents can happen.

  • Keep barbeques on flat ground, never leave them unattended, and keep children away from hot surfaces

  • Cook meat thoroughly to avoid food poisoning

  • Supervise children near paddling pools, rivers, or the sea. Never swim alone and always look for lifeguard-patrolled beaches

  • Avoid alcohol before swimming, and be aware of cold water shock

Caring for others in the summer

Hot weather can affect vulnerable groups more severely, including babies, young children, older adults, and people with long-term health conditions.

  • Check in regularly on older neighbours, relatives, or anyone living alone

  • Make sure babies and children are kept cool and hydrated

  • Help others stay cool indoors by closing curtains, using fans, and encouraging them to drink plenty of fluids

  • Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke so you can help someone quickly if they feel unwell

  • Support those with limited mobility to move into cooler areas of their home or access medical advice if needed

In Dorset, we believe in the power of small acts to make a meaningful impact within our communities.

Find out more about carer support in Dorset.