With more high temperatures continuing over the next few weeks, and with weather events such as heatwaves becoming more frequent, Richmond Council says "it is important to look after your health, and those around you, as well as our environment".

Thus, the authority has shared some tips on staying safe during hot weather.

Hot weather can affect everyone

The council said: "Anyone can feel unwell in hot weather, however, heat can have a greater impact on older adults, children under five years old, pregnant women, and people with health conditions, or those taking certain medications.

"People who are already ill, living alone, homeless, or working or exercising outdoors are also at higher risk.

"These groups can struggle more to stay cool or hydrated, which makes heat-related illness more likely."

The council's five ways to beat the heat and stay safe this summer include:

1. Be prepared – plan ahead for hot days, especially if you or others are at higher risk. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day.
2. Keep cool and hydrated – drink water regularly, wear light clothing and take breaks in the shade. Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm when the UV rays are strongest
3. Keep your home cool – use shading, ventilation and adjust appliances to reduce indoor heat
4. Check on others – look out for older people, young children, and anyone who may need extra support
5. Know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke – act quickly and seek help if someone becomes unwell

Learn more about heatwaves and how to stay safe.

Keep your home cool

Richmond Council said: "Homes can sometimes overheat and become uncomfortably hot. A home that is overheating can worsen existing health conditions and, in severe cases, be life-threatening.

"Homes that are more likely to overheat include top floor flats, homes with limited ventilation or shading, buildings with large sun facing windows or in densely built up urban areas, and some highly insulated or energy efficient homes without appropriate ventilation.

"Restricted window openings and heat-producing appliances can also increase indoor temperatures."

The council's tips to keep your home cool include:

• Keeping blinds and curtains closed throughout the day can keep a room cool
• Use external shading such as awnings or shutters if you have them as they are much more effective than internal covers
• Close your windows during the hottest parts of the day
• Once the outside temperature is cooler, open windows to let the cool air in and turn fans on to help move the hot air out of your property

Air-to-air heat pumps offer an efficient way to cool your home – especially when paired with solar power.

Read about solar, heat pumps and ventilation in the council's Smarter Homes Handbook and learn more about how to adapt your home.

Enjoy the water safely

The council said: "While swimming can be a nice way to cool off, help keep people in your care safe by making sure they understand the key risks and safety guidelines around swimming.

"The River Thames is a hot spot for activity, particularly during the hot summer months.

"As great as it can be for cooling off, it is important to remember that the Thames is a dangerous river - its strong current, houseboats and debris can all cause serious risk to life."

Richmond Council's safety advice before you enter water includes:

• Plan ahead – let someone know your plans and when you'll be back
• Check the weather and river conditions and be ready to change plans if needed
• Make sure your equipment is safe and suitable for your activity - this may include a lifejacket, tow float, wetsuit or other buoyancy aid
• Consider joining a club or get training and advice, and understand the risks
• Never jump into the Thames from a height

Find out more about water safety.

Look after nature and animals in hot weather

Richmond Council said: "With warmer, drier days ahead, your support is essential to help young street trees thrive.

"Water your local street tree using watering cans, a drink bottle, collected rainwater and grey water or join the Friends of Street Trees, a community-led volunteer group dedicated to helping our trees thrive.

"The number one cause of mortality for street trees in England is lack of water - but together, we can change that.

"Any additional watering support from the community, especially during hot and dry spells, goes a long way to ensure our trees make the most of the sunlight and thrive.

"Help nurture wildlife in the hot months by putting out a 'bath' or filling up a small plate or bowl for birds, insects and mammals at ground level to bathe in and drink from.

"Add stones if you have them for insects to land on. Our animal friends get hot and this is one way we can support them in the heat. If you see an animal in distress or needing help, check out our emergency wildlife contacts."