Getting ready for summer

Introduction

This is heatwave advice and guidance for the public and professionals.

While we look forward to summer, it’s important to remember that the effects of long spells of hot weather can be hazardous to health. This is especially the case with vulnerable groups, such as the very young, the elderly and the seriously ill.

If there is an average temperature of 30°C during the day and 15°C at night, forecast or happening for two days and a night, it will trigger a health alert. This figure is slightly different in different parts of the country. The Meteorological Office has a warning system that issues alerts if a heatwave is likely.

There is more information about the risks, and advice and guidance for protecting yourself and your family on the NHS Choices website.

National guidance for professionals from Public Health England is implemented locally through the Heatwave Plan for England: Somerset Delivery Framework.

Here are the action cards for professionals when heatwave alerts are issued.

Health and Social Care professionals

Care home managers and staff

Teachers and childcare professionals