Spring & Summer Preparedness

The spring and summer can bring some changeable weather as we head out of winter and start to see the warmer weather once again. There are simple steps you can take to look after yourself, your family, your home, business, and community.

Spring & summer risks

Weather - High temperatures, drought/ prolonged dry weather, wildfires, storms, surface water flooding.
Health - increased risk to heat stroke, sun stroke, dehydration.

Preparing yourself for the spring and summer

Surface Water Flooding

For information on flooding please see Flooding and Support for flood-hit homes and businesses.

Wildfires and open fires (bonfires and barbeques)

In 2022 Norfolk and Breckland saw devastating impacts from extreme heat and wildfires. Where the district lost a number of homes were destroyed, along side the countryside, much-loved natural landscapes and wildlife were harmed

Norfolk Fire Service has developed a list of actions for people to keep in mind to prevent wildfires during the summer months.

Do not drop cigarettes or any burning item onto dry ground
Ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished when smoking outside. Do not throw them from car windows where they may land on dry ground or grass by the roadside
Do not leave glass products behind when enjoying time outside. Direct sunlight through glass can cause a fire risk
Do not use barbecues in fields, open grassland, parks and forests
Ensure portable barbecues are fully extinguished and cold before safe disposal
Be aware of using barbecues, fire pits or bonfires around thatched properties. It only takes one spark, ash or embers moved by wind to cause accidental fire
Avoid driving on long, dry grass and fields. Your vehicle's exhaust can reach more than 1000 degrees. If you must drive in grassy areas, do not leave your engine running when parked. Remain vigilant.

For more information surrounding wildfires, as open fires please see the below links

High temperatures / Heat waves

listen to the news and check your local weather forecasts through the Met Office (opens new window) so that you know when hot weather is expected
look out for advice on what to do if services such as power, water supplies and transport are likely to be affected
check UK Air Pollution Forecast (opens new window) and advice, as air pollution can become worse during hot weather and can cause problems for people with asthma and other breathing problems
when hot weather is expected, plan your activities to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm

Water Safety

With the weather warming up it may become tempting to have a splash in local rivers and lakes however you may encounter a number of issues such as

Water depth - might be deeper or shallower than you might think
Water temperature - The water might be a number of degrees below what the air temperature is.
waterborne diseases

For more information on water safety during the warmer months please see ROSPA - Summer Water Safety (opens new window)

Keeping well in the spring & summer

Out and about

Keeping yourself cool while out enjoying the sun shine is vital in preventing heat exhaustion and heatstroke especially for vulnerable people.

Some tips for keeping cool while out and about this spring and summer;

Stay in the shade
Drink plenty of water, avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol as it contributes to dehydration
Wear breathable clothing

For more information please see, Met Office - Tips for keeping cool in hot weather (opens new window)

Inside your home

Keeping your home cool during the warmer months is key to getting a good nights sleep, ensuring vulnerable people will be able to manage in the warmer temperatures.

Good methods for keeping your house cool includes:

Keeping blinds and curtains closed throughout the warmest parts of the day (11am to 3pm).
Keep yourself cool through drinking plenty of water, wear loose and breathe able clothing
Use a Fan to help circulate air throughout your home

For more information please see;