Full list of UK homes likely to be affected during heatwave and it’s not just flats

With current UK temperatures coming close to top hot destinations like Dubai, Gov.uk has released a list of how homes can overheat and how to avoid this from happening.

While we have been enjoying the heatwave, it’s important to take precautions when it comes to our well-being, as well as our homes, because they can sometimes overheat.

Hot temperatures and enclosed spaces don’t work together. When homes retain the heat, they can become dangerous and even damage your property. Even worse, it can also affect your health and even worsen existing health conditions.

As explained by Gov.uk, there are a lot of reasons why people might be at a higher risk of feeling sick. However, some are at a higher risk than others, including those over the age of 65 and children under the age of five.

Most importantly, those who have any existing long-term health conditions and/or taking medications. People find it hard to adapt their behaviour in warmer weather due to illnesses like dementia or mental health issues. Also, those staying at home during the hottest time of the day are at risk of becoming ill.

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To help you prepare your home for the hot weather, a list of UK homes likely to overheat was released, also explaining how to keep a cool home environment during these times.

• Flats on the top floor
• Homes with opening windows
• Homes with little shading (i.e. no shutters, shades, curtains or blinds)
• Large east, west or south-facing windows without shade
• Homes in densely built-up areas with little to no greenery nearby
• Highly insulated or energy-efficient homes
• Homes with low-efficiency appliances
• Homes with restricted opening of windows

How to prepare your home for the hot weather

Most people spend most of their days outdoors. Still, whether you’re going to work or an outing with friends and family, ensuring that your home is suitable for spending hours without any supervision is key.

With the current heatwave and any other incoming, there are some things you can do ahead if you want to avoid your home overheating during these times. These include opening all windows to let the cool air outside enter your home, using electric fans, turning off any lights when it’s not necessary, and covering windows if possible.

Double-check that all your appliances are working properly, especially fridges and freezers. And if you have any medicine in sight, learn how to store it, as the packaging states.

If you have pets at home, ensure they have access to cool water at all times and provide a good temperature environment by turning on the air conditioner or an electric fan, ERGSY reported. Ideally, it’s best if your pets stay indoors to avoid any hot surfaces. If they need to have their morning or evening walk, it’s best to do so when temperatures have dropped.

You can find more detailed information on how to beat the heat and how to get help on the NHS website or the Gov.uk website.