It may not have felt much like summer, thanks to the frequent rain and storms. But after the hottest July on record, it’s important not to be fooled by the adverse weather and to take extra care in the heat.

Whilst July has brought us some record high temperatures, it’s also been filled with wind and rain. Now August and September are expected to bring us a bit of late summer sunshine, so being aware of high temperatures and greater sun exposure will ensure that we stay healthy for the remainder of the season.

Earlier this year, the NHS issued new guidance on safeguarding our health and those around us, especially older and more vulnerable people who require additional care. Heatwaves have the potential to cause serious illness or make minor problems much worse.

Keep cool and hydrated

If things get too hot, whether you’re indoors or out and about, staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of our health in the intense heat. Drinking water or low-sugar drinks like tea and coffee helps to combat dehydration and the symptoms of light-headedness and fatigue that come with it.

Try to stay in the coolest areas possible. This could mean sticking to shaded areas if you’re having a picnic or playing outdoors, especially with youngsters. For those staying indoors, you can keep light coloured shades or curtains drawn or open windows in the late afternoon when the sun is past its strongest point.

Stay in touch

The recent updated advice from the NHS touches on those who rely on care from a family member or care worker. Checking up on an individual a little more regularly than normal will help to ensure that they are comfortable and safe during any hot spells.

Make sure that any older relatives are easily able to keep in touch with somebody – whether that’s yourself or a trusted caregiver. This will enable them to quickly get assistance if they need it. It’s also useful to remind them of the symptoms of heatstroke and other heat related illnesses so they can alert you as soon as possible if they become affected.

At SureCare, we make every possible effort to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our service users. While the scorching summer heat appears to have been dampened by the rain, our care teams up and down the country remain vigilant in case of intense heat spike over the coming months. That way, we know that we’ll provide the most effective care in any circumstances.

Don’t forget to enjoy the rest of the summer – despite all the wind and rain! Just remember to be mindful of the potential risks of heat and sun exposure, especially around older relatives, little ones and other vulnerable people close to you.