Staying safe in the heat

by | 26/5/2026 | Advice, Alcohol, Alcohol Support, Awareness, Community, Drug Support, Drugs, Education, Harm Reduction, Homelessness, Homelessness & Hostels, Non-Opiates, Opiates, Outreach, Outreach Services, Prescribed Medication, Prescription Drugs, Prescription Medication, Prescriptions, Public Health, Recovery, Resources, Support, Top Tips

The UK is currently experiencing a heatwave, and high temperatures can affect everyone, but especially people who are in recovery or managing their health. Here is what you need to know to keep yourself safe over the coming days.

Drink plenty of water

When it is hot, your body loses water more quickly. Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do right now.

  • Aim to drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day, and more if you are outdoors or sweating.
  • Keep a water bottle with you and sip regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty.
  • Try to avoid caffeine and sugary drinks in the heat, as these can dehydrate you faster.
  • Eating foods with a high water content, such as cucumber, melon, and strawberries, can also help.

Alcohol and the heat

Hot weather and alcohol do not mix well. Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it causes your body to lose fluid. In the heat, this effect is much stronger and can lead to dehydration very quickly.

  • If you do drink, alternate with water and try to drink less than you normally would.
  • Alcohol can also make you feel warmer than you are, which makes it harder to recognise when your body is overheating.
  • If you are working to cut down or stop drinking, the heat can sometimes make cravings feel stronger. Be kind to yourself, and reach out to your support worker or keyworker if you need extra help.

Drugs and the heat

Some substances can affect how your body regulates temperature, which makes hot weather more risky. This includes both recreational drugs and some prescribed medications.

  • Stimulants such as cocaine and MDMA can raise your body temperature significantly. Combined with heat, this increases the risk of overheating.
  • Cannabis and opioids can make you less aware of how hot you are, so it is easy to miss the warning signs.
  • If you use, try not to do so alone, stay somewhere cool, and drink plenty of water.

Medication in the heat

If you take prescribed medication, it is worth knowing how heat can affect it.

  • Some medications, including certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and blood pressure tablets, can affect how your body handles heat. If you are unsure about yours, speak to your pharmacist or GP.
  • Some medications need to be stored below a certain temperature. Check the label and keep them out of direct sunlight. If you are unsure, your pharmacist can advise.
  • If you collect your prescription in person, try to go early in the morning when temperatures are lower.

Recognising heat exhaustion and heatstroke

It is important to know the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and what to do if you or someone around you is affected.

Heat exhaustion

Signs include heavy sweating, dizziness, feeling sick, headache, pale and clammy skin, and a fast or weak pulse. If someone has heat exhaustion, move them somewhere cool, give them water, and help them cool down with a damp cloth or fan. They should start to feel better within 30 minutes.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Signs include a high temperature above 40C, hot and dry skin (not sweating), confusion, loss of consciousness, or seizures. Call 999 immediately.

Practical tips to stay cool

  • Keep blinds or curtains closed in rooms that get direct sunlight during the day.
  • Open windows in the early morning and evening when the air is cooler.
  • Wear loose, lightweight, light-coloured clothing.
  • Avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.
  • Use suncream to protect your skin if you do go outside.
  • Check in on neighbours, friends, or family who may be more vulnerable in the heat.

We are here if you need us

If you are struggling in the heat, you are welcome to come into any of our hubs for a cold drink or to refill your water bottle. Our team are here to support you, and you do not need an appointment to pop in.

You can also get in touch with us:

If you or someone else needs urgent medical help, call 999. For non-emergency health advice, call NHS 111.

Take care of yourself this week. You matter.

Last Updated on 26 May 2026