With the particularly hot weather we’ve had this week it’s a good idea to be cautious about what activity we do and take care.
The heat can affect anyone but certain people are more vulnerable and you may not know until its too late.
Groups that are vulnerable include:
Older people, especially over 75, babies and young children, people with serious long-term conditions, particularly dementia, heart, breathing or mobility problems, people on certain medicines, including those that affect sweating and temperature control, people with serious mental health problems, people who misuse alcohol or drugs AND people who are physically active – for example, labourers or those doing sports, including hiking.
Advice for coping in the heat.
The best way to prevent problems is to:
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol and make sure you carry water with you if you are travelling, walking or doing sport.
- Stay out of the heat, particularly between 11am and 3pm, cool yourself down, keep your environment cool or find somewhere else that is cool.
- Look out for neighbours, family or friends who may be isolated and unable to care for themselves; make sure they are able to keep cool during a heatwave.
- Get medical advice if you are suffering from a chronic medical condition or taking multiple medications.
- Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
- Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes.
Public Health England have a handy advice leaflet
What about running?
Runners, particularly those training for a particular race – even if in the autumn, often don’t want to miss training and it can be quite frustrating, particularly if you don’t have access to a gym where you can train in a cooler environment.
