Due to climate change, more frequent and intense episodes of extreme weather are likely – being prepared and understanding the risks can protect health.

Hot weather can affect anyone, but some people are at greater risk of becoming seriously unwell, including older people, babies and young children, pregnant women and people with long-term health conditions.

Taking action early can help prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

See staying well in hot weather for advice on:

• keeping cool indoors and outdoors
• staying hydrated
• looking after vulnerable people
• protecting pets during hot weather
• understanding heat-health alerts

You can also read NHS guidance on how to cope in hot weather, which includes practical advice on staying safe during periods of extreme heat.

Water quality

Water quality can vary over time due to weather, pollution and environmental conditions.

Before swimming or taking part in water-based activities, it is worth checking the latest information about local bathing waters.

You can use the government’s water quality service to:

• check cleanliness ratings
• view recent water quality assessments
• find information about pollution incidents
• make informed choices about where to swim

Water safety

Swimming and water-based activities can provide excellent physical and mental health benefits, but open water presents risks that may not always be obvious.

Cold water, strong currents, tides and changing weather conditions can affect even experienced swimmers.

Before entering water, you should check local conditions and:

• swim in recognised locations where possible
• never underestimate the effects of cold water
• avoid entering water alone
• make sure children are supervised at all times
• make use of life-guarded locations if you are alone, or not a strong swimmer

Useful resources include:

• How to stay healthy while wild swimming – advice from UKHSA on enjoying open water safely while reducing health risks.
• Cold water shock – the facts – information about recognising and avoiding the effects of cold-water shock.
• Beat the heat: staying safe in hot weather – guidance on safely cooling down during periods of hot weather.

A few moments of preparation before entering the water can help keep you safe and confident while enjoying Devon’s coastline and waterways.

Flooding

Flooding can happen quickly, at any time of year, and may affect homes, businesses, travel and health.

Having a plan in place before flooding occurs can help reduce disruption and improve safety for you and your family.

Consider:

• knowing whether your property is in a flood-risk area
• signing up for flood warnings if available
• preparing an emergency plan
• knowing how to protect important documents and medicines

Find practical advice and guidance about flooding.

The air we breathe can affect our health every day.

Air pollution can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs and may worsen existing conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart disease.

Periods of hot weather can sometimes increase levels of:

• ozone – a harmful gas that irritates the lungs and affects breathing
• nitrogen oxides – traffic-related gases that worsen air quality and contribute to other pollutants
• fine particulate matter (PM₂.₅ and PM₁₀) – tiny airborne particles that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, affecting health

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency of extreme heat events, which may contribute to poorer air quality.

Wildfires can also significantly affect local air quality. Smoke from fires may cause:

• coughing
• wheezing
• breathlessness
• chest discomfort
• irritation of the eyes and throat

You can help protect both your health and Devon’s environment by taking extra care during dry and hot periods. You should:

• dispose of cigarettes responsibly
• follow local fire safety advice and restrictions
• never leave barbeques unattended
• report wildfires or uncontrolled fires immediately

If you have asthma, COPD or another respiratory condition, pay particular attention to air quality forecasts and follow your usual treatment plan.

Checking air quality before outdoor activities can help you make informed decisions and reduce your exposure when pollution levels are higher.

A healthy environment supports healthier communities.

Across Devon, organisations, communities, businesses and volunteers are working together to improve natural habitats, increase resilience to climate change and support wildlife recovery.

Projects across the county help to:

• improve biodiversity
• reduce flood risks
• strengthen climate resilience
• improve access to nature
• support healthier communities

Spending time in nature can benefit both physical and mental wellbeing, while protecting natural environments helps ensure future generations can continue to enjoy them.

Find out more about environmental projects across Devon by visiting:

• Devon County Council’s environment website
• Devon Local Nature Partnership
• Devon Local Nature Recovery Strategy

Everyone can contribute. The more we recognise the value of the wonderful Devon countryside, the more we can protect it together.

Whether it’s reducing litter, preventing wildfires, supporting local conservation projects or simply spending more time outdoors responsibly, small actions can make a positive difference for both people and nature.