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Extreme heat is becoming an increasingly important risk for care providers.
For care homes, supported living services and other care settings, hot weather can affect resident wellbeing, staff safety, medication management, building conditions and business continuity.
Older people, people with long-term health conditions and those who may be less able to regulate their body temperature are at greater risk during periods of hot weather. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) guidance makes clear that social care providers have an important role in reducing these risks before and during heatwaves.
Preparing in advance can help protect residents, support staff and reduce the likelihood of incidents during periods of extreme heat.
Anyone can become unwell if they get too hot, but some people are more vulnerable than others.
In care settings, this may include:
Identifying those most at risk before temperatures rise is an important part of effective risk management.
Heat exhaustion can develop when the body becomes too hot and struggles to cool itself.
According to NHS guidance, symptoms can include:
In care settings, staff should also be alert to changes in behaviour, confusion, reduced fluid intake or unusual tiredness, particularly in residents who may not be able to communicate how they are feeling.
If symptoms do not improve after cooling measures, medical advice should be sought.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency.
It can develop if heat exhaustion is not treated or can occur suddenly.
Warning signs include:
If heatstroke is suspected, call 999 immediately while taking steps to cool the individual.
Care providers should take a proactive approach before and during periods of hot weather.
Practical measures include:
Simple actions, carried out consistently, can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
Extreme heat does not just affect residents. Staff wellbeing is equally important.
Care providers should consider:
Supporting staff helps maintain safe care delivery and reduces the risk of heat-related illness within the workforce.
Some care settings are more susceptible to overheating than others.
Higher-risk areas often include:
Providers should identify areas that become particularly warm and consider additional measures to keep residents and staff comfortable during prolonged periods of hot weather.
Every care provider should have a plan for managing periods of extreme heat.
A hot weather plan should include:
Communication with families where appropriate
Escalation procedures when medical support is required
Reviewing the plan before summer and after any significant heat event can help ensure it remains effective.
Extreme heat should be treated as a foreseeable operational risk.
From a risk management perspective, providers should consider:
Good planning and clear documentation can help demonstrate that reasonable steps have been taken to protect residents, staff and the organisation.
Why are older people more vulnerable during hot weather?
Older people often find it harder to regulate their body temperature and may be less likely to recognise the early signs of dehydration or overheating. Certain medical conditions and medications can also increase their risk.
How often should residents be encouraged to drink during a heatwave?
Residents should have regular access to fluids throughout the day, with additional encouragement for those who may not independently ask for a drink.
Should care homes have a heatwave plan?
Yes. A documented hot weather plan helps providers prepare for periods of extreme heat, protect vulnerable residents and demonstrate effective risk management.
Can extreme heat affect care staff?
Yes. High temperatures can lead to dehydration, fatigue and reduced concentration, making it important to support staff wellbeing alongside resident care.
At Quality Care Group, we work with care providers to identify, manage and reduce operational risks before they become incidents.
From health and safety guidance to business continuity planning and specialist insurance advice, our Risk and Claims team helps organisations strengthen resilience and protect the people who matter most.
If you would like to discuss risk management, business continuity or how your organisation can prepare for periods of extreme weather, get in touch with Quality Care Group today. Our team is here to help you build a safer, more resilient care service.
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