Everyone urged to keep curtains and blinds closed until Saturday
The government has issued urgent advice about how to stay cool in a heatwave which contains a pack of information about stopping you and your household from getting too hot.
UK households are being advised to close their curtains and blinds today as the hot weather continues.
The government has issued crucial advice on how to keep cool in a heatwave, offering key information aimed at preventing overheating in homes.
Although the weather isn't quite as sizzling as the peaks of 31.2C last Friday, continued spells of sunshine and high humidity have left British homes sweltering - and the hot weather is set to continue for a few more days at least.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued advice about keeping homes cool during heatwaves.
A crucial tip includes keeping windows and curtains closed "in rooms that face the sun".
Direct sunlight on windows causes a rapid increase in house temperature. This phenomenon, akin to the 'greenhouse effect' observed in Earth's Ozone layer, intensifies the heat within houses as it does within greenhouses.
As a result, if you find sunlight streaming through any window, the easiest solution would be to draw the curtains while keeping the window behind it open for ventilation.
The hot weather is set to continue until Saturday, where a sudden downpour is set to break the conditions with a deluge of downpours.
A month's worth of rain could fall in one day, with thunder and lightning storms as well, so you won't need to close your curtains from Saturday onwards.
The complete guidance from the UKHSA advises people to avoid sun exposure during the day's hottest hours - between 11 am to 3 pm.
If you're planning on physical activities like exercising or walking the dog, it's advised to arrange them during cooler parts of the day like the morning or evening.
Keep your home cool by shutting windows and drawing curtains in rooms that are exposed to the sun.
When venturing outdoors, ensure you're appropriately dressed with suitable headgear and sunglasses, seek out shade where possible and apply sun cream.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and try to limit your alcohol consumption.
Check up on family members, friends and neighbours who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. If you fall into this category, ask them to do the same for you.
Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and know what actions to take if you or someone else exhibits these signs.
The government department stressed: "It is crucial to heed the advice in this guidance to prepare for hot weather. This is especially important for those at a higher risk of falling seriously ill. To prepare, stay updated with the news and check your local weather forecast so you're aware when hot weather is predicted. Be on the lookout for advice on what to do if services such as power, water supplies and transport are likely to be disrupted."
"Monitor air pollution forecasts and advice, as air pollution can worsen during hot weather and pose problems for individuals with asthma and other respiratory issues."
"When hot weather is anticipated, plan your activities to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm."
