Cheshire Resilience Heatwave Planning
Keeping safe in a Heatwave.
Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too
long there are health risks, especially for the very young, the
elderly and the seriously ill. In particular, very hot weather can
make heart and breathing problems worse. 
“There is considerable evidence that heatwaves are dangerous and can kill,” says Graham Bickler of the Health Protection Agency. “In the 2003 heatwave there were 2,000 to 3,000 excess deaths (more than usual) in England. Across Europe, there were round 30,000 excess deaths.”
The Cheshire Local Resilience Forum's heatwave plan for 2011 has advice on how to cope during a heatwave. Knowing how to keep cool during long periods of hot weather can help save lives.
When heat becomes a problem
The main risks posed by a heatwave are:
•dehydration (not having enough water)
•overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already
have problems with their heart or breathing
•heat exhaustion
•heatstroke
A heatwave can affect anyone, but the most vulnerable people in extreme heat are:
•older people,
especially those over 75
•babies and young children
•people with a serious chronic condition, especially heart or
breathing problems
•people with mobility problems, for example people with Parkinson’s
disease or who have had a stroke
•people with serious mental health problems
•people on certain medications, including those that affect
sweating and temperature control
•people who misuse alcohol or drugs
•people who are physically active, for example labourers or those
doing sports
Tips for keeping cool:
•Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter
outside. If it’s safe, open them for ventilation when it is
cooler.
•Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am
and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the
effects of heat.
•Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the
windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and
keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the
room hotter).
•Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool
water.
•Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid
tea, coffee and alcohol.
•Stay tuned to the weather forecast on the radio or TV, or at the
Met Office website.
•Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food,
water and any medications you need.
•Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to
keep cool.
•Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors.
•Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able
to look after themselves.
How do I know if someone needs help?
If someone feels unwell, get them somewhere cool to rest. Give them plenty of fluids to drink.
If symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, weakness, dizziness or cramps get worse or don’t go away, seek medical help.
Cheshire Resilience Heatwave
Planning.jpg "Cheshire Local Resilience Forum")
The aim of Cheshire Local Resilience Forum Heatwave Plan is to "To enhance resilience in the event of a heatwave to protect health and reduce harm from extreme heat and heatwave for the Cheshire, Halton and Warrington community".
In doing so we are ensuring that the residents of Cheshire, Halton and Warrington are prepared for any forthcoming Heatwave.
Cheshire
Local Resilience Forum Multi-Agency Heatwave
Plan
Useful links: