Staying Safe in the Hot Weather: A Personal Message from Alert Health 24

As the summer temperatures rise, we wanted to take a moment to reach out personally to all our amazing Nurses, Healthcare Assistants, and Support Workers across the Alert Health 24 family.

We know how hard you’re working to provide outstanding care, and we also know that working through hot weather can bring extra challenges. Your wellbeing is so important to us — not just because we value you as part of our team, but because staying well means you can continue delivering the compassionate, high-quality care that makes such a difference to those you support.

Here are some simple, practical ways to look after yourself and your service users during this hot weather.

---

💧 Stay Hydrated

It’s easy to get caught up in busy shifts and forget to drink enough water, but dehydration can creep up on you quickly and affect your energy and concentration.

• Please make time to drink plenty of water throughout your shift – even small sips regularly will help.

• Look out for your service users too, especially those who might not remember or feel the urge to drink – they rely on you to keep them safe.

---

👕 Dress Smart for the Heat

Where your setting allows:

• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing and try to keep your uniform loose and comfortable.

• Make sure you have access to spare uniforms or a fresh change if you need it.

• Comfortable, supportive shoes are still really important, especially as feet can swell in the heat.

---

🏠 Keep Indoor Spaces Cool

• Close curtains or blinds during the hottest parts of the day.

• Use fans safely and make the most of ventilation to keep rooms as cool as possible.

• Encourage the use of cool cloths or cold drinks to help service users regulate their temperature.

---

🌞 Sun Protection Matters

If you’re working in the community or supporting people outdoors:

• Please wear high-factor sun cream and reapply regularly.

• If you can, wear a hat or visor for extra protection.

• Try to schedule outdoor visits for cooler parts of the day when possible.

---

🚑 Be Aware of Heat-Related Illness

Both you and your service users can be at risk of heat exhaustion or heatstroke in extreme temperatures. Please watch for signs like:

• Headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, excessive sweating, confusion or nausea.

If you notice any of these symptoms in yourself or in others, act quickly. Move to a cooler place, hydrate, and if needed, seek medical help straight away.

---

⏸️ Take Breaks – You Deserve Them

We know how dedicated you are, but it’s so important to pace yourself.

• Please take your breaks in cooler areas when you can.

• Don’t wait until you feel unwell – if you need to stop, take that moment to look after yourself.

---

💙 Supporting Those Who Rely on Us

The people you care for may not always recognise when they’re getting too hot or dehydrated – particularly older people, babies, and those with health conditions.

Your care and attention can literally save lives in this weather.

---

We’re Here for You

At Alert Health 24, we are always here to support you – whatever the weather. If you need advice, if you’re struggling with the heat, or if you simply want to chat through how to manage a shift safely, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with your consultant or a member of our team.

Thank you for all that you do – every shift, every day.
You really are the heartbeat of Alert Health 24.

Stay safe, stay cool, and keep up the incredible work.