High temperatures can be dangerous, especially for the very young or very old or those with chronic disease.

An average temperature of 30°C by day and 15°C overnight would trigger a heat health alert (this figure varies slightly around the UK). There are four levels of alert.

• Level one: Awareness – This is the minimum state of vigilance.
• Level two: Alert – This is triggered as soon as the Met Office forecasts threshold temperatures for at least three days ahead in any one region, or that there is an 80% chance of temperatures being high enough on at least two consecutive days to have significant effects on health.
• Level three: Heatwave – This is triggered as soon as the Met Office confirms that threshold temperatures have been reached in any one region or more.
• Level four: Emergency – This is reached when a heatwave is so severe and/or prolonged that its effects extend outside health and social care, such as power or water shortages, and/or where the integrity of health and social care systems is threatened.

The UK is currently at level three alert.

These temperatures can have a significant effect on health if they last for at least two days and the night in between.

Tips for coping in the heat

• Check on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.
• Shut and shade windows when it is hotter outside, and open them for ventilation when it is cooler outside.
• If you're vulnerable to the effects of heat, don't go out between 11am-3pm.
• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water or fruit juice, and avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• Stay tuned to the weather forecast and plan ahead with supplies.
• Drink plenty of water, dehydration will cause you to suffer from headaches, dizziness and exhaustion. Make sure you carry a bottle of water with you everywhere.
• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where you will be most comfortable.
• If you have to go outside, remember to put on sunscreen lotion.
• Remember to keep children protected from the sun at all times, put on hats and sunscreen if they have to go out. Give them plenty of fluids.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes and light colours to reflect the heat.

Find out more about looking after yourself and others during hot weather.