Summer means long, hot days! While it’s lovely to be able spend time outside, hot weather can cause serious health problems, so it’s important that before, during and after hot weather you keep cool and stay hydrated.

Keeping cool
• Use air-conditioning or electric fans if available to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors.
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothes.
• Avoid being outdoors in the hottest part of the day as much as possible. If you have to go outside, try to stay in the shade.
• Close curtains and blinds to block out the sun.
• Spend time in the coolest area of your home.
• Limit physical activity to the cooler early morning.
• Use stoves and ovens as little as possible as these can heat up the home.
• Wet your skin with cool water using a spray bottle or a damp sponge or cloth.
• Place cool packs or damp towels loosely over your neck and shoulders.
• Take cool showers, or sit for a while with your feet in cool water.
• Find cool places or air-conditioned public facilities in your local area, if you can safely travel without getting too hot.
• When it cools down outside, open your windows and doors to allow warm air out and let the cool air in.
• Protect yourself outdoors from the sun by applying sunscreen and wearing sun-protective clothing, sunglasses and a wide brim hat.

Staying hydrated
• Drink plenty of water regularly – even if you don’t feel thirsty. If your doctor has asked that you limit your fluid intake, ask how much water you should drink during hot weather.
• Do not replace your water intake with alcoholic or sugary drinks.
• Carry water with you if you’re spending time outdoors.

Please ensure you let Care Connect know if you go to hospital, so we can suspend services that may occur while you’re there and plan ahead if your care needs have changed. This will ensure your needs are met when you return home.