The information on this page is provided to help older people feel safe; by giving details about upcoming events; seasonal tips; warnings about scams and general information that will promote safety.

10 tips for staying cool

• Don’t spend long periods sitting or working outside during the hottest time of the day: late morning to mid-afternoon.
• If you’re travelling by car or public transport always take a bottle of water.
• Avoid strenuous activity, and limit activities like housework and gardening to the early morning or evening when it’s cooler.
• When inside, try to stay in the coolest parts of your home. Keep curtains and blinds closed in rooms that catch the sun.
• Keep windows shut while it’s cooler inside than out and open them when it gets hotter inside. If it’s safe, you could leave a window open at night when it’s cooler.
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-coloured, cotton clothing.
• Take cool baths or showers.
• Splash your face with cool (not cold) water, or place a damp cloth on the back of your neck to help you cool off.
• Drink lots of fluid – even if you aren’t thirsty.
• Eat normally – even if you aren’t hungry, you need a normal diet to replace salt losses from sweating. In addition, try to have more cold foods, particularly salads and fruit, as these contain a lot of water.

 What else can you do?

• If you live alone, consider asking a relative or friend to visit or phone to check that you’re not having difficulties.
• If you know a neighbour who lives alone, check regularly that they are OK.
• If a heatwave is on its way or the weather is hot for several days, listen to local radio so you know the latest advice for your area. Check weather reports and temperature warnings on TV and radio, and through The MET Office.
• If you have breathing problems or a heart condition, your symptoms might get worse when it’s very hot. Contact your GP for advice.
• Bacteria on food can multiply quickly in hot weather, which increases the risk of food poisoning. Don't leave food out in a warm room or the sun.

More information

For more information or to download the guide "Staying Safe in a Heatwave", please visit the Age UK site

Safety tips from Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service

Here are some simple safety steps from Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service to help reduce emergencies and keep you and your family safe:

• Protect your home with working smoke alarms – Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and test them weekly
• Plan and practice an escape route – If fire does break out – Get out, stay out and call 999
• Take extra care in the kitchen – Over 50% of accidental house fires start in the kitchen!
• Check your electrics – Check and maintain your electrical appliances
• Smoke safely – If you have to smoke, ensure you put cigarettes out – RIGHT OUT!
• Make sure you sleep safely – Before you go to bed, carry out a bedtime safety check – it could save your life
• Reduce your speed – Speed is a major factor in fatal road accidents
• Leave extra time for car journeys
• Drive to weather conditions – Don’t take risks on the roads
• Do not use a mobile phone when driving!

For up to date information regarding the industrial action, including frequently asked questions and advice on keeping safe, please visit www.derbys-fire.gov.uk