Coping in extreme weather
We’re here to help you feel comfortable all year round and particularly during spells of extreme weather and temperatures. Whilst we can’t control the weather, we can help you plan and prepare for heatwaves, freezing conditions and everything in between.
The Met Office issues warnings for rain, wind, snow, ice, fog, thunderstorm, lightning and extreme heat. Anyone can sign up to receive these warnings by email at www.metoffice.gov.uk.
If you’re signed up to the Priority Services Register, your energy supplier should be able to provide you with extra assistance during extreme weather conditions. We can help you sign up, or you can do this yourself by contacting your energy supplier.
Use the tabs below to find more information about how Hitting the Cold Spots can help Hampshire residents manage during extreme weather and temperatures.
If you’re living in a cold home with inadequate heating or hot water, please contact the Hitting the Cold Spots team by phoning 0800 804 8601. We may be able to provide you with emergency solutions.
In the event of life-threatening emergency, call 999 for the emergency services.
In the event of life-threatening emergency, call 999 for the emergency services.
• Try to keep your house cool. Closing blinds or curtains can help.
• At night, keep your sleeping area well ventilated. Night cooling is important because it allows the body to recuperate.
• Try to stay cool by taking cool showers or baths and/or sprinkle yourself several times a day with cold water.
• Avoid too much exercise when it’s very hot, as this can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Watch for signs of heat stress which is an early sign is fatigue.
• Drink plenty of fluids, but not alcohol, which dehydrates the body.
• Try to eat as you normally would. Not eating properly may exacerbate health-related problems.
• Keep your vehicle well-ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Take plenty of water with you and have regular rest breaks.
• If you have vulnerable neighbours who may be at risk during a heatwave, try to find out if someone is already looking after them or if they would like you to ring them daily.
• If you do go out for exercise or into your garden, try to avoid the hottest part of the day (11am to 3 pm) and seek shade where possible. Avoid being in the sun for long stretches. Wear lightweight, light-coloured clothing, high factor sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.
• The UV index (the strength of the sun) can be high at many times of the year – it doesn’t have to be hot. The UV index can be strong through cloud even when the sun isn’t directly shining.
• Reapply an appropriate factor sun cream at regular intervals during the day.
