The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) operates an annual Heat-Health alert system in England from 1 June to 15 September. The Heat-Health Alert system compromises four levels of response based upon temperature thresholds reached and an assessment of impact by UKHSA and the Met Office. For more information about the Heat-Health Watch scheme visit the Met Office website.
Older people, those who live alone, younger children and babies and those with serious illnesses find it particularly hard to cope when the temperature rises, so it’s important to look out for those people in our community. Check in on friends, family and neighbours who may struggle in the heat.
To help spot the signs of someone with heat exhaustion or heatstroke, check out this guidance from the NHS.
If someone is unwell or needs further help, the NHS is here to help. Call NHS 111 or speak to your local pharmacist.
When a heatwave does occur, it is important to be prepared and take steps to reduce the risks both for yourself and those friends and relatives that may be vulnerable. There are many simple ways to do this and you can find easy to follow guidance through these links:
Council services affected
During extreme hot weather some council services may be affected. Please see below for details of where to get up to date information for some key services.
Visit the summer advice hub for more information about keeping up to date.
Schools
To check if your child’s school is closed please refer to their school’s website.
If you are unsure of their website, please refer to our schools directory to find your school.
Rubbish and recycling collection
This is the responsibility of Borough and District Councils but collections may start earlier in the mornings. Please make sure you put your bins out for collection the night before to ensure they are emptied. For up to date information visit the borough and district council responsibilities web page.
Roads
We have a supply of grit that is ready to be spread on any roads that may be susceptible to melting. Our highways teams are carrying out regular inspections and remain on standby to repair where necessary.
You can report a highways issue on FixMyStreet or, if it needs more immediate attention, you can contact us by phone. In an emergency, always dial 999.
Buses
Please use our bus service disruption due to bad weather web page to see details about local bus providers. Please check your local providers website, bus tracking map or social media for any service updates or cancellations.
