Heatwave alert—stay safe!

Trust staff and members of the public are advised to be mindful of the severe hot weather expected today and tomorrow in London. There is a lot if information available on the NHS website on high risk groups and why it is important to be prepared.

You can also find out more on Public Health England’s website, including how to cope with the heat during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Please follow these simple tips to stay safe:

• keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped
• avoid the heat: stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
• wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes
• keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this is not possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter)
• if possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping
• have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water
• drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol. Water, lower-fat milks and tea and coffee are good options
• if you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat and light scarf
• check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves