In Oxfordshire, a heatwave is declared when temperatures meet or exceed 27°C for a period of at least three consecutive days.
During a heatwave, the Met Office may release an Extreme Heat Warning. This warning is designed to highlight the potential impacts of extreme heat to protect lives and property, helping people make better decisions to stay safe and thrive.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) may also release a Heat-Health Alert. For more information on the UKHSA heat-health alerts, including how to sign-up to receive alerts,
please visit: www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/warnings–and–advice/seasonal–advice/heat-health-alert-service
Your local District, Town or Parish Council may open cool spaces during periods of high
temperatures and heat waves. Voluntary groups may also support spaces or even set up
their own. Cool spaces are designed to offer local residents accessible and welcoming
locations where they can seek shelter from the sun, stay cool and enjoy some company. It
is important to consider supporting those who are vulnerable with travelling to and from
spaces, however it may be safer for some to remain home.
Your local District Council will also have a Severe Weather Emergency Protocol which they
may activate during hot weather to support those who are homeless. Please contact your
District Council or check their website for more information.
Advice for Residents During Periods of Hot Weather:
To reduce heat generated in the home, check your heating is off, turn off lights and
electrical equipment not in use and try to cook at cooler times of the day. For essential
devices that emit heat, consider closing doors to those rooms.
To stay cool in the home during the day, shade, or cover windows.
Open windows (when it is safe to do so) when the air feels cooler
outside, such as at night, and get air flowing through the home to
create a crosswind and consider sleeping downstairs where it is cooler
Use electric fans if the air temperature is below 35°C, but do not aim
the fan directly at your body as this can lead to dehydration.
It may be cooler outside in the shade or in a public building (such as
places of worship, or supermarkets) so consider a visit to cool down if you
are able to safely travel there without putting yourself at more risk from the heat.
Extended periods of higher day and night-time temperatures can put our bodies under
stress and exacerbate underlying or undiagnosed health conditions. Managing higher
temperatures at home during day and night is equally important to protect our health.
If you are concerned someone may be overheating, seek medical advice by contacting
NHS 111. In an emergency, or if you think someone has heatstroke, dial 999. For further
information on heat exhaustion and heatstroke symptoms, visit: www.NHS.UK
