Last summer was the UK’s hottest on record. The famous 1976 heatwave is now not even in the top 5 hottest summers in the UK (1)
This summer has already smashed records, so while working to reduce global heating caused by greenhouse gas emissions, we also need to think about responding to the weather. This helps us protect ourselves, preserve valuable resources and enjoy summer in the beautiful Peak District.
Keep your house cool:
To keep a building cool, stop it getting hot! Draw curtains or close blinds before the sun warms the room. Unless you’re up early, this probably means closing curtains before you go to bed. If you can, leaving windows open overnight lets cooler air enter
the room and helps reduce temperatures. Some people suggest hanging a sheet on the outside of your window, which stops heat entering but allows air to enter.
Keep yourself cool:
Anyone who has been outside in the heat will recognise the relief a breeze can bring. A fan gives the same effect indoors. The breeze doesn’t actually reduce the temperature, but air movement helps our bodies let heat evaporate. Remember though, dogs and other animals can’t cool down in the same way, so be careful with pets. The RSPCA recommends keeping dogs out of the sun and giving damp towels
to lie on (but don’t place them over your dog as this can trap the heat) (2)
Save water:
In hot dry weather, water becomes even more precious. We need to make sure we save as much as possible, and don’t waste a drop. Preparing ourselves for longer hotter summers might mean installing more water butts and checking plumbing for leaks. We can help reduce the pressure on water supplies ourselves by reusin water from the kitchen or bath to water plants, or even putting a bucket in the bottom of the shower to catch water.
Enjoy the sunshine, stay cool and look after each other! To find out how you can help
take action on climate change, come to a HVCA event, sign up to our newsletter, or reach out to us at info@hopevalleyclimateaction.org.uk
Stuart Walker (HVCA Trustee)
1 https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/blog/2026/how-has-summer-warmth-changed-in-the-uk
2 https://www.rspca.org.uk/w/whatwedo/press/heatwave-pet-care-myths
