Heatwave Plan

Climate Change

Climate change means heatwaves are likely to become more common in England. By the 2080s, it is predicted that an event similar to that experienced in England in 2003 will happen every year.

In Northern France in August 2003, unprecedentedly high day and night time temperatures for a period of two weeks resulted in many deaths - the vast majority of these were among older people. The evidence is strong that these deaths were the result of heat related conditions.

Heatwaves

There are certain groups that are particularly at risk during a heatwave. Including:

  • older people, especially those over 75 years old and/or living on their own, or in a care home
  • people suffering from mental ill health, those with dementia, and those who rely on help from other people to manage day today activities
  • people who are bedbound
  • people taking certain types of medication
  • babies and young children, especially those under four years old

Certain types of environment may exacerbate the risk from extreme heat, such as accommodation in top floor flats, lack of air conditioning, or work places producing heat, such as foundries and bakeries.

During extremely hot weather, there is a risk of developing heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Heatstroke can develop if the symptoms of heat exhaustion are left untreated. It can also occur suddenly and without warning. Heatstroke can result in organ failure, brain damage or death.

Oxfordshire PCT Heatwave Emergency Plan

The PCT has a Heatwave Emergency Plan that provides planned preparation and response to protect health and reduce harm from extreme heat across the Oxfordshire area. The plan follows the guidance issued by the Department of Health (external link).

The plan is in operation from 1 June to 15 September annually and includes the following core elements:

  • A 'Heat-Health watch' system whereby Met. Office forecasts will trigger varying levels of response.
  • Advice and information to be provided direct to the public and to health and social care professionals.
  • Identification of individuals most at risk to ensure that they receive timely advice, assessment and support.
  • Ensuring that extra help is provided to those most at risk.
  • Use of the media to get advice to people both before and during a heatwave.