Staying safe in the heat

Heat-health alerts are currently in place across large parts of the UK, meaning the risks from hot weather extend beyond vulnerable groups and can affect us all.

Key reminders for everyone

Please make sure you stay hydrated, keep cool and look out for each other.

If you begin to feel unwell (for example dizziness, headaches or nausea), please let your manager know straight away and take time to rest and cool down.

Whatever your role, you can use the seven S’s for sun safety:

• Shade – Stay in the shade wherever possible, particularly between 11am and 3pm
• Slip – on protective clothing such as long-sleeved tops
• Slop – on sunscreen; reapply regularly
• Slap – on a wide-brimmed hat
• Sunglasses – wear appropriate UV protection
• Sunshine – be mindful of peak UV exposure
• Sip – drink fluids regularly to avoid dehydration, which can occur quickly in hot weather

Additional advice during heatwave conditions

• Plan physically demanding tasks for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
• Take regular breaks and avoid overexertion.
• Use fans or air conditioning where available.
• Keep indoor spaces cool by closing blinds and opening windows when the temperature drops.
• When travelling, carry water and plan rest breaks.
• Check in on colleagues, friends and family, particularly those more at risk.

Sun safety for operational volunteers and staff

• Use issued sun-protective PPE
• Plan training for cooler times of day
• Consider crew rotations or changes during prolonged exposure
• Use practical cooling methods where appropriate
• Be aware that sea temperatures remain much colder, increasing the risk of cold-water shock despite hot air temperatures
• Wear lightweight under-layers beneath drysuits

Dealing with heat illness

Hot weather increases the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can affect anyone.

Symptoms

• Heat exhaustion: fatigue, headache, dizziness, nausea, sweating, cramps
• Heat stroke (medical emergency): confusion, hot dry skin, seizures, loss of consciousness

What to do

• Move the person to a cool, shaded area
• Loosen clothing
• Offer small sips of water
• Seek help or call 999 / 112

Heatstroke requires immediate medical attention.

Please share our water safety message

Although it’s hot out there, cold water shock is a real danger, which we want as many people as possible to be aware of.

Please share the RNLI’s safety tips with your friends, family, on social media and especially with the young people in your life

As temperatures rise, please share our lifesaving advice.

Thank you for helping keep everyone as safe as possible.