Staying safe in hot weather

Hot weather can lead to risks to your safety, both in terms of your health and your home. 

It is important to take care during extreme heat, including following advice provided by the government and health organisations. 

To help you stay safe, read the information below on how you can stay safe in hot weather. 

Health advice during extreme heat

• Stay hydrated and avoid excess alcohol. 
• Keep out of the sun during 11am to 3pm, which is when UV rays are at their strongest. If you are going outside, make use of cooler spaces and avoid physical exertion particularly in the hottest parts of the day.
• Close the curtains in rooms where the sun shines directly on them, as this keeps rooms cool. 
• Check in on vulnerable people, including the elderly, children and those with health conditions.
• Never leave anyone in a parked car, especially children and pets. 
• Stay up to date with the latest weather forecast and advice. 

If you need non-emergency health advice you should call 111, or 999 if it is an emergency. 

Fire risks in extreme heat

Extreme heat can increase the risks of fires starting and spreading quickly, so it’s important you take steps to ensure the safety of yourself and your home. 

Here are some tips for how you can reduce the risks of fires starting during hot weather: 

• Ensure that flammables in your home are stored safely, as these can cause incredibly dangerous fires or explosions. Read more about safely storing flammables at home. 
• Keep reflective materials out of sunlight, such as outside glass tables, as these can lead to serious fires starting in your home. Read more about fires started by sunlight.
• Many use fans to keep themselves cool in hot weather. Fans used excessively can overheat and risk catching fire. Avoid leaving a fan on unattended, and do not use it if it is damaged or you have concerns about it. 
• Bonfires or other types of outside fire should be avoided, as these can quickly get out of control, particularly with grass and vegetation being particularly dry. 
• Barbecues are popular in hot, sunny weather, however they can pose potential fire risks. Visit our barbecue safety webpage to find out more. 

Related safety advice