When planning YFC activities, it’s always advisable to keep an eye on the weather to make sure your activity/event can still go ahead or if adaptations need to be made.
Weather forecasters usually issue guidance about extreme weather events, so look out for these and follow the guidance accordingly.
Most club meetings are held during the evening, which is when the weather can be cooler but you should still include more refreshment breaks to keep everyone hydrated, and move activities to a shaded area if you’re planning an activity outdoors.
Review planned activities to avoid cases of heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
If you’re hosting an event in the daytime, you may need to consider moving activities to the evening to avoid the afternoon heat (between 11am and 3pm are when UV levels are at their highest).
Review your programming when a heat wave is forecast to ensure planned activities are suitable for the temperature. An afternoon club fundraising hike or a rounders match, for example, might be best avoided to reduce the risks associated with high temperatures.
Ensure the committee members or guests who are leading the club meeting also remain hydrated and are given plenty of breaks too. Ensure they are comfortable in the heat to deliver a session and give them plenty of time to cool down in shaded areas with cool drinks too.
If you’re offering food at a YFC activity – or hosting a cookery activity – consider the options and how your food choices will work in the hot weather.
If you were planning to serve or prepare food that is at a higher risk when exposed to heat, then consider alternatives. Always refrigerate high risk foods like meat and dairy.
Look at providing moisture-rich foods such as salads or ice lollies and ensure all food is kept cool.
Always have a reliable and safe source of drinking water.
If you’re activities involve some form of travel, assess which travel methods will work the best in the heat. Always carry plenty of water and plan rest breaks ahead of the trip.
You’ll need to ensure all drivers have enough time to rest too and share driving responsibilities if possible. Give yourself extra time to allow for breaks.
Pick the cooler parts of the day for making a journey – leaving earlier in the morning for example, will make it more comfortable in the heat and there should also be less traffic on the roads.