Heatwave

1. Stay hydrated - always carry water with you and drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. Try to avoid alcohol, tea and coffee, as they can make dehydration worse.
2. Wear protective clothing - where possible, wear loose fitting clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
3. Generously apply sunscreen - cover all exposed skin using a sun protection factor of at least 15. Re-apply every 2 hours - even on cloudy days - and after swimming or towelling. 
4. Seek shade - stay in the shade when appropriate, especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun's UV rays are at their strongest.
5. Avoid strenuous activity - avoid taking part in outdoor activities, such as sports, DIY or gardening - do these activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning.
6. Stay cool indoors - stay in the coolest rooms of your house, keeping curtains closed. Open windows in different locations throughout your home, leaving doors open (if possible) to create a breeze throughout the house, which will aid the cooling process. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment, as they generate heat. Electric fans may provide some relief, if temperatures are below 35°C.
7. Look out for the signs of heat-related harm - if you feel dizzy, weak or have intense thirst and a headache, move to a cool place as soon as possible. Drink some water or diluted fruit juice to rehydrate. Avoid excess alcohol. If you have painful muscular spasms (particularly in the legs, arms, or abdomen), rest immediately in a cool place and drink electrolyte drinks. Most people should start to recover within 30 minutes; if not, you should seek medical help. Call 111 if you feel unusual symptoms, or if symptoms persist. If a person develops any signs of heatstroke, call 999.

Read more advice on how to cope in hot weather

Contact your doctor, pharmacist or NHS direct if you have any concerns about your health, skin or the effects of heat.