Andrews Air Conditioning is encouraging care providers to remain vigilant when the temperature is higher than normal over the coming weeks.

They are particularly concerned about residents in a care environment who are more susceptible to such changes in temperature.

The manufacturer is drawing attention to evidence showing that those most at risk are residents in care homes, those over 75 and those with mobility, heart or breathing problems.

The air conditioning firm have issued their top tips to providers to help them avoid heat related issues, within a care environment:

Optimal capacity: Always ensure that all on-site air conditioning equipment is functioning at full capacity and that it is serviced regularly.

Watchfulness: The Met Office will issue heat wave warnings between 1st June and 15th September each year. Check that you have indoor thermometers and monitor them regularly.

Building management: Ensure that your building is well insulated, as this will not only keep residents warm in winter, it will prevent heat building up in the summer. Keeping windows shaded with curtains or pale linings will also contribute to keeping the heat at bay, particularly the effect of direct sunlight.

Medicines: Do any medicines require specialist storage conditions in hot weather?  If so, ensure that these are available in your building for medicine relocation.

Risk identification: Consider the parts of your facility that will require the most attention e.g. facing direct sunlight, as well as the residents most likely to be in need of support.

Be prepared: Is your team aware of increased heat procedures? The Government has produced a useful support guide in this area, which can be found here.

React quickly: Ensure that you have portable fans in the building to deploy and that you have the details of a specialist emergency air conditioning supplier readily available.

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