British Red Cross offers tips to help people during hot weather as temperatures are expected to rise
11 August 2026
The British Red Cross is sharing advice on staying safe in hot weather, including how to avoid sunburn and spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
The British Red Cross is sharing advice on staying safe in hot weather, including how to avoid sunburn and spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, after amber health alerts were issued across most of England this morning. It comes as drought has already been declared in large parts of England and across Wales, with communities facing dry conditions and increased risk of wildfires.
Temperatures are forecast to peak on Thursday with possible highs of 36C in the South East and up to 35C likely across central and eastern England.
The extreme heat can pose a threat to people’s health, and the charity is encouraging everyone to take the necessary precautions over the coming days.
William Spencer, climate and first aid expert at the British Red Cross, said:
“With the UK Health Security Agency issuing amber heat health alerts across most of England from Tuesday to Friday, it’s important to take extra care over the coming days.
“While periods of hot weather have become more familiar in recent years, they can still pose serious risks to health. In fact, after prolonged dry and warm conditions, it is more important than ever to follow heat safety advice.
“Simple steps such as wearing sunscreen, drinking plenty of fluids, seeking shade during the hottest parts of the day and taking regular breaks from the sun can help protect you and those around you. It’s also important to look out for the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly among people who may be more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.
“Many communities are also experiencing drought conditions or are in areas at increased risk of wildfires. We encourage everyone to follow advice from local authorities and visit our website for practical guidance on staying safe and supporting anyone who may be at greater risk during periods of extreme heat.”
Those more vulnerable to heat risks include older people, pregnant women, young children and people with chronic health conditions. People who work outdoors and live in top floor flats should also take extra care during hot weather.
Met Office Chief Forecaster Jason Kelly said:
“Heat will gradually build this week, with temperatures reaching into the mid-30s Celsius in what will be a fairly widespread heatwave for England and Wales.
“The driver for this week’s heat is high pressure, this becoming dominant over the next day or so, bringing plenty of sunshine and allowing temperatures to build day-by-day. Southerly or southeasterly winds will also tap into the hot conditions over Europe, meaning we’re looking at further notable heat for many this week, likely peaking on Thursday.”
Previous research by the British Red Cross showed people, including those most at risk, didn’t see themselves as vulnerable to the impact of heatwaves.
This is supported by a study from World Weather Attribution and the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, which found that temperatures above 28°C can be dangerous in the UK.
The charity has a hot weather checklist available in eight languages on their website, as well as first aid advice for hot weather, and a free first aid app. Free extreme weather teaching resources are also now available in schools.
The Red Cross offers advice on their website identifying the symptoms of heat-induced health risks:
About the British Red Cross
For over 150 years, the British Red Cross has helped people in crisis, whoever and wherever they are. With millions of volunteers in over 190 countries, the British Red Cross is part of an international humanitarian Movement that’s there for people before, during and after a crisis. Together, we are the world’s emergency responders. www.redcross.org.uk