Tips for Staying Safe in a Heatwave

Here are some helpful tips for staying safe in a heatwave. We’ve experienced three heatwaves in some parts of the UK already this summer, and they are likely to become more frequent. As we’re still getting used to them, it’s important to take heatwaves seriously and making small adjustments will help you to be more comfortable and stay safe.

Heatwaves can be serious if your body is unable to keep itself cool. This can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and even heat stroke, which should be treated as a medical emergency.

In addition, if night-time temperatures remain high, it can be harder to sleep, causing additional tiredness and lethargy.

  1. Stay hydrated
  • Staying hydrated is one of the most effective ways to help your body regulate its temperature. Sip water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. If you’re not keen on drinking plain tap water, add a slice of lemon or some cordial to make it taste more appealing.
  • Pace yourself – drinking smaller amounts more often is much better than a big drink when you’ve realised you haven’t drunk anything for a while. This can overwhelm your stomach or pass through your system before it’s hydrated you. Set yourself a reminder if you’re not used to drinking regularly.
  • Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they increase dehydration
  1. Stay cool
  • Take a bottle of water with you if you need to go out
  • Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing in light colours
  • Carry a hand-held or portable fan
  • Walk in the shade if you can
  • Wear sunscreen – you can still get sunburn or skin damage even when you’re not in direct sunlight
  • Keep windows and curtains or blinds closed during the day if they face the sun – you can open them to increase ventilation once they are in the shade
  • Take a cool shower to lower your body temperature
  • Adding a gazebo outside your static caravan or park home may be an easy way to provide some shade if you don’t have an awning
  • An electric fan or portable air conditioning unit may help you feel more comfortable at home, especially if you want to cool down your bedroom in the evening
  • Adjust your routine – avoid being outside (and in the sun) during the hottest part of the day and avoid vigorous exercise or strenuous jobs until the weather changes
  1. Look out for others
  • Extreme heat affects everyone, but the elderly, babies and young children and people with long-term health conditions are most vulnerable, along with people who work outside or in physical roles
  • Contact older relatives, friends and neighbours, especially those living alone to check they are OK
  • Make sure children are staying hydrated, wearing sun cream and staying in the shade
  • Never leave anyone in a hot car or outside for long periods of time
  1. Remember your pets
  • Your pets can be vulnerable in the heat too. Ensure they always have access to cool, fresh water.
  • Avoid taking any dogs for a walk during the day – go early in the morning and/or late in the evening. If the pavement is too hot to touch, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on. And consider buying cooling gel mats to keep your pets cool indoors.
  • Never leave your dog (or any pet) in a hot car
  1. Take care around water
  • It can be tempting to cool off in lakes, rivers or the sea, but it’s important to note that cold water can trigger cold water shock, especially when the air temperature is very high.
  • If you do go in the water, enter slowly to allow your body to adjust to the temperature and always avoid swimming alone.

We hope that these tips will help you to stay cool, comfortable and, most importantly, safe during a heatwave. For information on recognising the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and when to seek medical attention, check the advice from St John’s Ambulance.

Please note that all insurance cover is subject to acceptance of terms and conditions.

This is a marketing article from Park Home Assist, multi award-winning providers of park home insurance, mobile home insurance, insurance for static caravans,  insurance for holiday homes and holiday lodges, as well as boat insurance and touring caravan insurance. If you have any questions about your insurance, then please call our office on 01604 946 796 and one of our insurance advisers will be happy to help.

Published – 17/07/26