Weather warnings – heat advice

As the heat wave continues, we want to ensure you have the practical information you need to stay safe and comfortable. 

If your accommodation does not have cooling, managing how and when you let air into your space is key to keeping it comfortable. Please follow these essential tips:

• Manage your windows and blinds: Keep your windows closed and your blinds or curtains drawn during the hottest parts of the day (10am-5pm). This stops the hot outside air and direct sunlight from making your room uncomfortably warm. Move to a cooler part of your accommodation if possible.
• The night-time cool down: Open your windows (if it is safe to do so) in the evening and overnight when the outside air temperature drops below the indoor temperature.
• Turn off electronics: Laptops, desktop screens, chargers, games consoles, and even standard lightbulbs generate a surprising amount of ambient heat. Turn them off at the wall when not in use.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid relying solely on sugary or caffeinated drinks, which can increase dehydration.
• Cooling down: If you want to quickly cool down, run cold water on your wrists, another trick is to fill a hot water bottle with ice cold liquid, or put your socks in the fridge before you wear them.
• Utilise cool campus spaces: If your room becomes uncomfortable during the day, remember that several areas on campus - including the main library, and specific study zones - benefit from full climate control. Shade under trees and even supermarkets can offer some relief from the heat.
• Avoid direct sunlight during the hottest hours of the day: Avoid going out during the hottest hours of the day between 10am and 5pm. If you must go out, ensure you wear a hat, apply sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Avoid strenuous activities to reduce the risk of overheating.
• Clothing: Wear light, loose clothing where possible.
• Increased risk of fires: Do not attempt to have a barbeque as the ground is dry and this increases the risk of fires.

Feeling unwell? Heat exhaustion can creep up quickly. If you or a fellow student or staff member experience dizziness, a persistent headache, intense thirst, or nausea, move to a cool space immediately and sip water.

If you're staying in University accommodation, contact the Accommodation Hub for support.

For non-emergency medical support, call NHS 111.

If urgent first aid is required, contact security or a known first aider. 999 is to be called in life-threatening emergencies.

More information can be found here: Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather - GOV.UK