Top tips for staying well during hot weather
With schools breaking up for the summer and warmer weather expected, Dorset residents are being reminded to take simple steps to stay safe and well.
Hot weather can affect anyone, but young children and older people are at greater risk of becoming unwell.
Follow these simple tips to stay safe in the heat and around water this summer:
Stay safe in the heat
- Keep your home cool by closing curtains and windows in sunny rooms.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest.
- Wear sunscreen, a sun hat and sunglasses when outside.
- Plan activities like exercise or dog walks for cooler times of the day, such as the morning or evening.
- Learn the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and know what to do if someone becomes unwell.
Enjoy Dorset’s coast and waterways safely
Dorset’s beaches, rivers and harbours are popular places to cool off in summer, but open water can be dangerous.
Even on hot days, the water can be cold enough to cause cold water shock.
To stay safe:
- Keep a close eye on children around water at all times.
- Choose lifeguarded beaches and swim between the red and yellow flags where possible.
- Check water quality before heading to a beach, river, or lake
- Enter the water slowly to let your body adjust to the temperature.
- Leave the water straight away if you start to feel cold or unwell.
- Swim with other people and look out for each other.
- Swim parallel to the shore, not further out to sea.
- Wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid for activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, boating or fishing.
- Cover cuts, scratches or sores with a waterproof plaster before swimming.
- Wear appropriate protective clothing such as a wetsuit, gloves or protective footwear.
- Carry a means of calling for help and let someone know where you are going.
- If you get into trouble in the water, remember Float to Live. Tilt your head back, float on your back and try to control your breathing until help arrives or you can swim to safety.
- If you see someone in difficulty at the coast, call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.
