Amber Heat Health Alert: Keep cool and stay safe

 The UK Health Security Agency has raised today’s heat warning to amber for most of southern and central England from middayFriday 11 July  until 9 am Monday 14 July. An amber alert means that hot weather is likely to cause health problems for many people, not just those who are already unwell.

Simple ways to keep cool

• Drink plenty of fluids – water, squash, or milk; avoid too much tea/coffee or alcohol.
• Stay out of the midday sun (11 am – 3 pm)
• Wear light, loose clothing and a hat
• Keep rooms cool – close curtains on the sunny side, open windows when it’s cooler outside, use a fan if available
• Cool your skin – splash your face and wrists with cool water, or place a damp cloth on your neck
• Check in on others – babies, young children, older people, and those with long‑term conditions can struggle most

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke - Warning signs to watch for

Heat exhaustion (call 111 if symptoms last > 30 min)

• Heavy sweating, pale clammy skin
• Headache or dizziness
• Muscle cramps
• Feeling sick or very thirsty

Heat stroke (call 999 immediately) 

• Hot, dry skin that may stop sweating
• Confusion or slurred speech
• Fast breathing or pulse
• Body temp ≥ 40 °C (104 °F)
• Fits, collapse, or unconsciousness

If you think someone has heat stroke, move them to a cool place, call 999, and try to cool them with cool water or ice packs while waiting for help.

Need more information?

• NHS - Seasonal Health
• NHS 111 is available 24/7 for advice.
• Local weather updates and further guidance: Met Office & UKHSA 

Stay hydrated, keep cool, and look after one another during the heat.

Published: Jul 11, 2025