The Met Office and UK Health Security Agency have extended the existing Amber heat health alert for the East of England. The alert is now in effect until 9AM on 2 July 2025.
Many of us enjoy the sunshine, especially here in beautiful Essex. But when high temperatures last for several days, it’s important to take simple steps to stay safe and look after yourself.
Older adults, young children, and those with long-term health conditions can be more affected by the heat. That’s why it’s helpful to check in with friends, family, and neighbours to make sure everyone stays comfortable and well.
Medicines and heat sensitivity
Some medications can affect how your body responds to heat. This includes diuretics, certain antidiabetics, laxatives and mental health medicines. These may increase your risk of dehydration or heat-related illness.
If you are concerned, please seek advice from your pharmacist.
You should take extra care if you have a condition that affects your ability to regulate body temperature, such as heart failure, diabetes or kidney disease.
For those taking medicines for mental health conditions, Mental Health UK has published guidance on how heat can affect your wellbeing.
☀️ How to stay safe in the heat
🥤 Keep hydrated
Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Water is best, but fruit juice or diluted squash can help too. Avoid too much caffeine or alcohol.
🌳 Stay cool indoors and out
Try to stay inside during the hottest part of the day – usually between 11am and 3pm.
If you’re out, wear a wide-brimmed hat and loose, light-coloured clothing. Seek shade where you can.
Use fans to circulate air, and if you don’t have air conditioning at home, consider spending time in cooler public places like libraries, supermarkets or community centres.
👀 Look out for others
Check in with older neighbours, friends or relatives, as well as anyone who lives alone. Make sure they’re keeping cool and drinking enough fluids.
🌞 Protect your skin
Use sunscreen with a high SPF and wear sunglasses if you’re heading outdoors. UV rays can be harmful even on cloudy days.
| For more practical advice on coping in hot weather, visit the NHS heat health advice pages in our website. Link here |
SWF Health & Social Care Group 