The NHS provides the following advice for hot weather:

· Rest in a cool, dark place and drink plenty of water. If your symptoms get worse, call NHS 111 for advice.

· To avoid dehydration, make sure you’re drinking plenty of fluids. Water, diluted squash or fruit juice are all good options. It’s also good to eat a balanced diet to help your body replace any salt you lose by sweating.

· If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.

· Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks

· Avoid spending time outside or exercising during the hottest part of the day (between 11am and 3pm). Where possible, try to keep in the shade. Wear a sun hat and carry a bottle of water with you.

· When you’re at home. • Keep blinds down and windows closed when it’s cooler inside. • Most medication should be kept below 25°C – so it can be best to keep it in the fridge when it’s really hot. • Check your skin for changes every few months.

· • Drink plenty to avoid getting dehydrated and keep eating even if you’re not feeling too hungry. It can be best to avoid alcohol. If you get too hot

· • A damp cloth or a splash of water on the back of your neck can be better at cooling you down than a fan

· • Watch out for signs of dehydration, such as confusion, cramps, dark urine and feeling tired. You don’t have to feel thirsty to be dehydrated.

· • Be careful of heat exhaustion – symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea and a fast pulse. If you feel ill, lie down in a cool room, drink plenty of fluids, and cool yourself with a splash of water. Call your local pharmacist.

· Heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke. Symptoms include falling unconscious and seizures. Call 999 immediately if you think you or someone else might have heatstroke.

· If you know it’s going to be particularly hot, ask someone to check on you. In turn, check on others you think might need it