A red weather warning is in place (Wednesday 24th June), with extremely high temperatures expected across Neath Port Talbot. During periods of extreme heat, it’s important that everyone takes extra care to protect their health and wellbeing.

Hot weather can affect people differently, particularly older people, young children, those living alone and people with existing health conditions. We are encouraging tenants and the wider community to look out for themselves and others over the coming days.

Staying safe during hot weather

• Check in on others
  Look out for neighbours, family members and friends, especially older people, young children and anyone living alone.

• Avoid the hottest part of the day
  Where possible, avoid going outside between 11am and 3pm, when temperatures are at their highest.

• Keep your home cool
  Close curtains or blinds during the day to block out the sun, and open windows in the evening or overnight when it is cooler.

• Stay hydrated
  Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid too much alcohol, caffeine or sugary drinks.

• Protect yourself outdoors
  If you do need to go out, stay in the shade where possible, apply sunscreen and take water with you.

• Look after pets
  Make sure pets have plenty of fresh water and access to shade. It’s okay to miss walks during extreme heat to keep them safe.

• Know the warning signs
  Watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, such as dizziness, headaches, nausea or confusion, and seek medical help if needed.

Staying safe around open water

With warmer weather, more people are drawn to rivers, lakes and the sea. While it may look inviting, open water can be dangerous, and knowing what to do in an emergency could save a life.

Even on hot days, the average sea temperature is around 12°C, which is cold enough to trigger cold water shock. This can cause sudden, uncontrolled breathing and make it difficult to move.

The RNLI is urging everyone to remember one simple piece of advice: Float to Live.

If you find yourself struggling in the water, whether you have fallen in, been caught in a current or become tired while swimming, your instinct may be to panic or swim hard. Instead, the RNLI advises you to float on your back to regain control.

Float to Live: what to do

1. Tilt your head back with your ears under the water
2. Relax and focus on controlling your breathing
3. Use your hands and legs gently to help you stay afloat
4. Don’t panic if your legs sink, everyone floats differently
5. Once calm, call for help or swim to safety

Please watch the RNLI’s short Float to Live video below and share it with friends and family. It could save your life, or someone else’s.
Float to live could save your life. Remember it. Share it.