Temperatures Hitting 40°c: How to Keep Cool and Safe in the UK Heatwave

The UK is currently experiencing an intense heatwave driven by a heat dome over Western Europe, trapping hot air and pushing temperatures well above seasonal averages. 

Before heading outdoors, it is important to understand the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke. According to the NHS guidance on heat exhaustion and heatstroke, heat exhaustion is usually not serious if the person can be cooled down within 30 minutes. However, if it progresses to heatstroke, it becomes a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment and a 999 call.

Spotting the Signs: Exhaustion vs. Stroke

First Aid for Heat Exhaustion

According to St John Ambulance's heat exhaustion first aid advice, if someone is showing signs of heat exhaustion you should:

1. Relocate: Move them into a cool, shaded area or an air-conditioned room.
2. Position: Help them lie down and slightly raise their legs to support blood flow.
3. Hydrate: Give them plenty of cool water, lower-fat milk, or isotonic sports drinks. Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol.
4. Cool the skin: Loosen or remove unnecessary clothing, Spray or sponge them with cool water, fan them, and place cold packs wrapped in cloth around their neck and armpits.
5. Check: Their breathing, pulse and responsiveness.

St John Ambulance advises seeking medical advice if symptoms persist and calling 999 if you are concerned or suspect heatstroke. The first aid response to heatstroke is largely the same as heat exhaustion, just with more urgency. 

Simple Ways to Keep Cool

While it’s important to look after others, it’s also equally as important to keep yourself safe from heat illnesses. Research shows preventing heat illness is far easier than treating it. Incorporate these proactive daily measures:

• Drinking plenty of cold fluids.
• Wearing loose, light-coloured clothing.
• Avoiding direct sunlight between the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
• Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption.
• Limiting strenuous physical activity during the hottest part of the day.
• Keeping indoor spaces cool by closing curtains and blinds in sun-facing rooms.

⚠️ Look Out for Others

During periods of extreme heat, a simple welfare check on a neighbour, friend or relative can make a significant difference. Ensuring vulnerable people have access to drinking water, a cool environment and support if they become unwell can help prevent serious illness. Certain medications such as antidepressants can increase your vulnerability to dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke

As temperatures continue to rise across the UK and Europe, following advice from the NHS and St John Ambulance can help keep you and those around you safe. If you have a pet, please also follow the advice here, to keep them safe and cool. 

Charity check-in

At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article. 

St. John Ambulance. This UK charity helps communities stay safe by delivering first aid training, emergency response services and public health education. Learn more here.

Rainbow Railroad. This US-based humanitarian organisation supports people affected by disasters and emergencies, including dangerous heatwaves. Through cooling centres, emergency preparedness programmes and health education, the charity helps vulnerable communities stay safe during periods of extreme weather and rising temperatures. Discover their work here.

International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). This global humanitarian network works in more than 190 countries to help communities prepare for and respond to climate-related emergencies. From heat action plans and public awareness campaigns to emergency medical support during extreme weather events, the IFRC helps protect millions of people from the growing risks posed by heatwaves worldwide. Find out more here.

This positive news article aligns with the UN SDG Good health and Wellbeing.