As temperatures rise, it’s important to take extra care of ourselves and others.
Hot weather can be enjoyable, but it also brings serious risks – especially for vulnerable people.
These hints and tips have been put together by the community safety partnership to help you stay safe and healthy during a heatwave:
Stay cool and hydrated
- Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Water is best – avoid too much caffeine or alcohol.
- Stay indoors or in the shade during the hottest part of the day (usually 11am–3pm).
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothes and use sun cream with high SPF.
- Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day to keep your home cool.
Don't forget your sunscreen
- Make sure you apply sunscreen - even if you are only going out for a short period.
Look out for others
- Check in on elderly relatives, neighbours, or anyone who might struggle in the heat.
- Encourage them to stay cool and drink enough water.
- Never leave children, pets, or vulnerable adults in parked cars – even for a few minutes.
Stay safe around water
- Do not swim in lakes, rivers, reservoirs, or canals unless it is a designated, lifeguard-monitored area. Cold water shock and hidden dangers can be fatal.
- If you're planning to swim, stick to authorised outdoor pools or beaches with safety supervision.
No BBQs in public places including Beacon Park during hot weather
- Avoid using barbecues on balconies or in shared spaces that are not designed for barbecues.
- Do not use BBQs in wild or open spaces including Beacon Park, Burntwood Park and other council owned parks - this is because dry grass and high temperatures can easily lead to wildfires. Our staff will ask anyone using a barbecue to extinguish it.
Help those in need
- If you see someone sleeping rough, report their location to StreetLink www.streetlink.org.uk or contact us.
- Homeless individuals are particularly at risk during extreme heat due to lack of shade, water, and shelter - we often temporary accommodation to anyone sleeping rough during very hot weather as part of our severe weather emergency protocol.
- By taking a few simple precautions and looking out for others, we can all enjoy the summer safely. Let’s stay cool, stay kind, and stay alert.