Summer is a great time to enjoy the outdoors, but hot weather can also bring health and safety risks. With periods of extreme heat becoming more common, it's important to take steps to stay safe and comfortable. We've put together some practical advice to help you stay safe, keep your home cool, protect our shared spaces and look out for others during hot weather.
At home
- Manage windows and blinds – keep windows shaded and closed during the hottest parts of the day, then open them at night when the air is cooler. Avoid dark curtains or linings that absorb heat; use pale, reflective options instead.
- Check your heating – if you live in a building where your heating and hot water are managed by a heat network, make sure the heat interface unit in your home is set so your heating is off.
- Medication – Most medications need to be kept below 25°C, so during periods of extreme heat it may be sensible to keep them in the fridge.
- Check in – if you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours check in on them during extreme weather.
- Pets – make sure your pets always have access to water and avoid walking dogs during the day. There are more tips on the RSPCA website to help keep your pets cool.
When you are out and about
- Avoid the peak heat – avoid spending time outside or exercising during the hottest part of the day (between 11am and 3pm). Where possible, try to keep in the shade.
- Dress appropriately – light-coloured, lightweight cotton clothing is best in hot weather. Consider wearing a sun hat.
- Stay hydrated – carry a bottle of water with you, especially on public transport.
- Sun protection – apply suncream regularly, even when it's cloudy. Use at least SPF 30 and don't forget easily missed spots, like bald patches.
- Eye care – talk to your optician about prescription sunglasses. Ensure any sunglasses you wear carry a CE mark and UV400 label.
- Be prepared – keep an eye on the weather forecast and the government’s heat health alerts.
- If you feel unwell – look out for symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, learn more on the NHS website.
Balcony safety
We want you to enjoy your balcony safely in the summer months.
If a fire breaks out on your balcony it will spread much faster than indoors, due to the unlimited supply of oxygen in the outside environment. You can reduce the risks by following some simple balcony do’s and don’ts.
- Keep the number of items on our balcony to a minimum
- Extinguish cigarettes in an ashtray or bucket of sand or water
- Limit materials and furniture on your balcony – it's safe to have one table and two chairs, as long as they are wholly made of metal
- Store combustible items and materials on your balcony. This includes things like storage boxes, small balcony sheds, screens, floor coverings or decking, tins of paint, electrical appliances, plastic children's toys like paddling pools and other general clutter
- Use barbecues, fire pits or patio heaters. Fires caused by these types of items can spread very quickly to the balcony above and below or into your property via open doors or windows
- It’s best not to smoke on your balcony, however if you choose to, it’s really important you don’t drop cigarettes on or over the side
- Store gas cylinders (or other items containing flammable liquid) on your balcony, as there is a risk it may explode if left in direct sunlight
- Light or store fireworks on your balcony
- Store any items at all on your balcony if it’s in a communal area. It may be a fire escape route and therefore should be kept clear to allow you and your neighbours to evacuate safely if needed.
Our estate grounds
While sunshine is essential for healthy plant and tree growth, prolonged periods of hot, dry weather can cause grass to turn brown and appear dry and patchy. Over the summer months, the heat can affect many of the green spaces across our estates in this way.
There is no need for concern – the grass is not dead. Lawns are remarkably resilient and when cooler temperatures and rainfall return, the grass will recover and regain its healthy green appearance.
Water
Water supply
When the weather gets hot, everyone tends to use more water at the same time, which can put a massive strain on local water supplies already diminished by drought and lower water pressure.
You can help ensure there is always enough water for everyone’s essential needs—like drinking and cooking—by making small changes. Try to avoid using garden hoses or sprinklers, turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, and reuse paddling pool water for your plants. Every drop saved helps protect our water supply and keeps your bills in check!
Keep an eye on local news to check if a hosepipe ban has been put in place in your area.
Water safety
When the weather it hot it’s tempting to cool off by swimming in rivers and other open bodies of water. Some rivers, like the Thames, are tidal and strong currents can sweep you away even in shallow water.
There are other dangers too, including cold water shock and hidden hazards below the water line.
Don’t go into the water unless it’s a designated swimming area.
The Port of London Authority have produced this short video to warn young people of the dangers of the river Thames.