Staying safe in the heat

Hot weather can affect anyone, but older people, young children, people with health conditions and those living alone are most at risk.

How to stay safe

  • Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day
  • Keep your home cool by closing curtains or blinds on windows facing the sun
  • Avoid spending long periods in direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm
  • Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, a hat and sunscreen when outdoors
  • Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day
  • Never leave children, vulnerable adults or pets in parked vehicles
  • Check in on neighbours, relatives and friends who may be struggling with the heat

Looking out for vulnerable people

Some people are more at risk of becoming seriously unwell during hot weather. This includes:

  • Older people, especially those aged 65 and over
  • Babies and young children
  • People with heart, lung or other long-term health conditions
  • People taking certain medications
  • People with disabilities or reduced mobility
  • People who live alone
  • People experiencing homelessness

Please check on family members, friends and neighbours who may need extra support during the heat.

Simple things can make a big difference:

  • Make sure they have enough water and are drinking regularly
  • Help keep their home cool by closing curtains and blinds during the day
  • Encourage them to avoid the hottest part of the day where possible
  • Check they have any medication they need
  • Look out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, headaches, tiredness or feeling sick

If someone becomes seriously unwell or is having difficulty breathing, call 999 immediately.

Water safety

Open water can be dangerous, even during hot weather.

Please remember:

  • Swimming is not permitted in any lakes in the Borough
  • Rivers, lakes and reservoirs can contain hidden hazards and strong currents
  • Cold water shock can affect anyone, regardless of age or swimming ability
  • Children should always be supervised near water
  • In an emergency, call 999 immediately

Before entering any open water, think about the risks and choose safer ways to cool down.

Fire safety and grass fires

The current hot and dry conditions mean that grass, shrubs and other vegetation can catch fire very quickly.

You can help prevent fires by:

  • Not lighting campfires, fire pits or other open fires
  • Following restrictions on barbecues and disposable barbecues
  • Disposing of cigarettes and smoking materials safely
  • Taking litter home, especially glass bottles and cans
  • Reporting fires immediately by calling 999

Even a small spark can spread quickly and cause significant damage to homes, wildlife and open spaces.

Visit The London Fire Brigade for more safety advice

Cool spaces

If your home is becoming too hot, consider spending some time in a cooler public building during the hottest part of the day.

Libraries and community venues can provide somewhere to sit, rest and cool down, particularly for those who may struggle with the heat at home.

The following libraries are currently being promoted as cooler spaces in the Borough:

  • Central Library 
  • Crayford Library
  • Erith Library
  • St Augustine's Church Hall / Slade Green food bank:
    • Slade Green Road, Slade Green, DA8 2HX
  • Thamesmead Library at The Nest
  • Welling Library

These libraries are open during normal opening hours and can offer a comfortable place to rest during hot weather.

Check library opening times

If you are worried about a vulnerable friend, family member or neighbour who may be struggling during the hot weather, please check in on them regularly and make sure they have access to water and somewhere cool to rest.

Parks, open spaces and barbecues

We want everyone to enjoy our parks and open spaces safely. Please:

  • Take your rubbish home or use the bins provided
  • Follow all signs and local byelaws
  • Do not use barbecues where they are prohibited
  • Do not light open fires or use naked flames
  • Respect wildlife and the environment

Council officers may take enforcement action where byelaws relating to barbecues, naked flames and open fires are breached.

Stay informed

Please continue to monitor weather forecasts and follow any advice issued by the UK Health Security Agency, NHS and Met Office website.