Oxford Health shares ‘10 top tips’ for staying well in hot weather

With high temperatures expected to continue across the region in the coming days, Oxford Health is encouraging people to take steps to stay safe.

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Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, which provides community, mental health and learning disability services across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Swindon, Wiltshire, Bath and North East Somerset, is continuing to provide services as normal during the heatwave.

A few practical steps can make a big difference to help people enjoy the warm weather safely, so ‘10 top tips’ have been published to reduce the risk to potentially vulnerable people.

Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust Deputy Chief Nurse Angie Fletcher said:

“We encourage everyone to be aware of our advice and support those who may need extra help during a heatwave.

“Periods of hot weather can affect different people in different ways, and it can present risks to older people, young children and those living with long-term health conditions.

“Taking a few steps for yourself and a few minutes to check in on a neighbour, relative or friend can make a real difference.”

To help you make the most of the warmer weather safely, we have pulled together some practical advice on keeping yourself, your home and your loved ones safe and well during the heatwave.

 

Staying hydrated

  1. Drink regularly
 Drink water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  1. Choose cooling foods
 Eat foods with a high water content, such as fruit and salads.
  1. Limit alcohol
 Alcohol can contribute to dehydration in hot weather.

Keeping cool

  1. Avoid the hottest hours
 Stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm where possible.
  1. Dress for the weather
 Wear loose-fitting clothing, a hat and sunscreen outdoors.
  1. Cool down often
 Take cool showers or baths and use cool water on your skin.

Keeping your home comfortable

  1. Block out the heat
 Close curtains, blinds and windows when it’s hotter outside.
  1. Let cooler air in
Open windows when temperatures drop, particularly overnight if safe to do so.
  1. Find a cool space
 Identify the coolest room in your home and spend time there.

Looking out for others

  1. Check in regularly
Contact friends, relatives and neighbours who may need extra support to help them follow the above advice.

Hot weather can affect us all, but some people are more vulnerable to its effects. This includes older people, young children, pregnant women, people living with long-term physical or mental health conditions, and those who may need extra support, such as people who live alone or spend long periods outdoors.

Symptoms of heat exhaustion can include dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating and feeling weak or tired. If you or someone else develops these symptoms, move to a cool place, drink fluids and rest.

If symptoms worsen, or someone becomes confused, loses consciousness or develops a very high temperature, seek urgent medical help.

Need advice?

For more information, visit GOV.UK: Heat. This includes specific information on conditions such as Heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

People should use NHS 111 online as their first point of contact for non-emergency medical advice. Please note that NHS 111 online is not available for children under five, parents and carers seeking urgent help for young children should call 111.

The NHS App also links to NHS 111 online and offers help for a wide range of symptoms and conditions. The NHS website provides health advice and information, including help finding a local pharmacy, dentist, or GP practice.

Published: 10 July 2026