Stay Well in Dorset during the heatwave

Whilst Dorset is a wonderful place to enjoy the sunshine, high temperatures can pose serious risks to our health and wellbeing, particularly for older people, young children and those with underlying health conditions.

With an Amber Heat-Health Alert in place across the South West, including Dorset, from 9am on Wednesday 8 July until 9pm on Sunday 12 July, now is a good time to take simple steps to protect yourself, your loved ones and your community during the hot weather.

Keep cool indoors

During hot weather, homes can become significantly warmer than the temperature outside.

To keep your home as cool as possible:

  • Close curtains, blinds and windows during the hottest part of the day, especially in rooms that face the sun.
  • Open windows when temperatures drop in the evening and overnight.
  • Turn off unnecessary lights and electrical equipment that generate heat.
  • Move to the coolest room in your home if possible.

If your home becomes too warm, consider spending time in a cooler public space such as a library, community venue or shopping centre.

#HelpandKindness have put together a county-wide list of places where people can find relief from the heat:

Local Cool Spaces in Dorset

Stay safe outdoors

When temperatures are high:

  • Avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm.
  • Stay in the shade whenever possible.
  • Take regular breaks if you are exercising or working outside.
  • Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing.
  • Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
  • Apply SPF 30 or higher sunscreen with UVA protection and reapply regularly.

If you are planning outdoor activities, consider doing them earlier in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler.

Stay hydrated

One of the most important things you can do in hot weather is drink plenty of fluids.

Try to:

  • Drink water regularly throughout the day.
  • Carry a refillable water bottle when you’re out and about.
  • Eat foods with a high water content, such as fruit and salads.
  • Limit alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.

If you’re feeling thirsty, dizzy or fatigued, these may be signs that you need to cool down and drink more fluids.

Find more support here

Know the signs of heat-related illness

Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Excessive sweating
  • Feeling weak or tired
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Muscle cramps

If someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion:

  1. Move them to a cool place.
  2. Encourage them to drink cool water.
  3. Cool their skin with water or cold packs wrapped in a cloth.
  4. Stay with them until they feel better.

Seek urgent medical help if symptoms worsen, do not improve within 30 minutes, or if the person becomes confused, loses consciousness or has a seizure.

Look out for each other

Hot weather affects everyone differently. A simple phone call, text message or visit to a neighbour, relative or friend can make a real difference, particularly for people who live alone or have existing health conditions.

By taking sensible precautions and supporting those around us, we can all enjoy the warmer weather safely.