As I sit here looking out the window on yet another wet chilly day, it is good to know that the Department of Health is worrying about my well being. Somebody somewhere has indicated that there is a possibility of a heat wave this summer. Of course it is far more likely to bounce it down all through the summer, and the Met Office have said it is far to early to say if it will be hot, but you will be assured to know there is something called the "Heatwave Warning System." This is triggered if the temperature rises above 32C (90F) in the south, or 30C (86F) in the Grim old North. Hardly Sub Saharan is it? It is not even sub Mediterranean.
When the thermometer breaches this threshold it is time to act. Identify those most at risk, namely the elderly and those with repository problems. Paint your house white. Plant some shrubs. Identify the coolest part of your home. Make sure you have a good supply of water to hand. If you have any concerns an Environmental health worker at your local authority can visit to inspect the condition of your home for hazards to health, including excess heat.
This seems a little bit extreme to me, and as such would like to offer an alternative "Nonsense free guideline for warm weather." Purchase shorts and wear. Visit off licence and stock up on ice cold lager. Invite friends to house. Have fun and enjoy the sun on it's all to brief sojurn to this damp island. Here's hoping for a warm one.....
