With temperatures climbing, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) is urging the public to take heat and water safety seriously – both at home and abroad.
NHS figures reveal that 30 people in the UK died from excessive natural heat between 2013 and 2022, with 2022 marking a record year for heat-related deaths (8). Between 2013/14 and 2022/3, there were around 2,100 hospital admissions in the UK due to exposure to excessive natural heat.
During 2022’s heatwave, where temperatures rose past 40 degrees there were 320 hospitalisations – the highest number in that decade from 2013/4 to 2022/3.
Looking at similar data, RoSPA’s RoSPA’s Safer Lives, Stronger Nation report also highlights a growing risk from extreme heat. Hospital admissions due to over-exposure to natural heat have more than tripled in the past two decades, rising from an average of 72 per year in the early 2000s to 232 annually in recent years.
Steve Cole, policy director at RoSPA, said: “Heat is no longer just a holiday perk—it’s a growing public health risk. We’re seeing more frequent and intense heatwaves, both in the UK and globally, and the data shows a clear rise in heat-related illness and fatalities.
“Warm weather can also be deceptive when it comes to going for a dip. While the air may feel hot, water temperatures often remain dangerously cold, which can lead to cold water shock, even in summer.”
Water safety warning
RoSPA is also highlighting the increased risk of accidental drowning during hot weather. Independent research from the Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK) and Bournemouth University shows that when air temperatures hit 25°C or more, the risk of accidental drowning increases fivefold compared to cooler days.
Key water safety advice includes:
- Swim at supervised locations such as lifeguarded beaches or outdoor pools
- Avoid swimming alone and always assess the risks before entering open water
- If you get into trouble, Float To Live:
- Tilt your head back with ears submerged
- Relax and control your breathing
- Use arms and legs for stability
- Call for help or swim to safety once calm
- If you see someone in trouble, Call, Tell, Throw:
- Call 999
- Tell them to float on their back
- Throw something that floats to help them stay above water
RoSPA’s hot weather tips for the garden or out and about
- Stay hydrated – drink water regularly; avoid alcohol and caffeine
- Seek shade – especially between 11am and 3pm
- Use sunscreen – apply high-factor protection
- Dress smart – wear light, loose-fitting clothing
- Know the signs – watch for symptoms of heat exhaustion or heat stroke
- Plan ahead – check forecasts and avoid peak heat hours
Cole added: “As the UK becomes hotter, RoSPA warns that even domestic holidays carry risks. We’re seeing more people affected by heat and water dangers at home, not just abroad. Travellers—especially solo ones—should take extra care, plan routes, stay connected, and know when to seek help.
