Keeping Cool This Bank Holiday

Posted on May 21st, 2026

Yellow Heat Health Warning This Bank Holiday

The UK Health Security Agency has issued a heat health alert for the East Midlands. The alert is currently in place from 9am on Friday 22 May until 5pm on Wednesday 27 May.

If current forecasted temperatures are reached it is important to remember that vulnerable people in the community may struggle to cope in the heat.

Therefore, the local NHS is reminding people to look out for older people, people with long-term health conditions and young children who may find it more difficult to stay cool and hydrated in hot weather.

For tips on looking after yourself and others during hot weather, visit:
https://leicesterleicestershireandrutland.icb.nhs.uk/your-health/get-in-the-know/get-in-the-know-this-summer/.

Top tips

To keep your home cool, close blinds and curtains on windows that are exposed to direct sunlight. Use an electric fan if the temperature is below 35°C, but do not aim the fan directly at the body.

Go outside if it is cooler in the shade than being inside.

Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol during the hot weather.

If spending time outdoors remember to take water or other hydrating drinks with you.

Protect yourself from the sun during the hottest hours of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm, and avoid physical exertion. Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, wear a hat, sunglasses and light, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothes.

Apply sunscreen frequently of at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 star ultraviolet A (UVA) protection regularly to exposed skin.

Don’t leave babies, children, older people or vulnerable people or pets alone in stationary cars in hot weather.

Look out for children in prams or pushchairs in hot weather; keep them in the shade, remove excess clothing, ensure there is adequate air flow and check regularly to ensure they are not overheated.

Look out for older people, people with long-term health conditions and young children who may find it more difficult to stay cool and hydrated in hot weather.

Ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any help keeping cool.