Prepare for a heatwave
In July 2022, the UK recorded 40.3°C at Coningsby — the first time 40°C had ever been measured on British soil. The same heatwave caused 2,800+ excess deaths (ONS) and triggered major wildfires, including Wennington in east London. The Met Office now considers 40°C events possible most years. UK housing was built for cold, not heat — overheating, dehydration and grid strain compound the risk.
The difference between getting through a heatwave comfortably and ending up in A&E comes down to three things: extra water (5 L/person/day, not 3), passive cooling (blackout blinds, shaded windows during day), and checking on elderly neighbours twice daily — UK heat deaths skew strongly toward over-75s.
How to prepare for extreme heat
Water: 5 L per person per day in temperatures over 35°C, not the usual 3 L. Oral rehydration salts (Dioralyte or equivalent) for anyone showing signs of heat exhaustion.
Cooling without AC: blackout blinds or reflective foil on south/west-facing windows close at dawn, open at dusk. Cooling fan + power bank in case of grid strain. Damp towels on wrists, neck and ankles. Cool baths/showers. Avoid cooking with the hob or oven (generates indoor heat).
Vulnerable groups: check on elderly neighbours twice a day. Babies, pregnant women, those with cardiovascular, kidney or respiratory conditions, and anyone on diuretics, antihistamines or antipsychotics are at higher risk. Move to a cooler room (north-facing, ground floor) if your usual room overheats.