As temperatures remain high, all residents are reminded to look after themselves, keep hydrated and look out for those who may struggle in the heat.

Croydon Council is working with its partners to keep the borough’s residents safe and keep essential services running as normal. It’s also taking steps to make sure that vulnerable residents, such as older people, babies and young children, stay safe during the hot weather.

Service updates

  • Residents with housing needs are asked not to attend the council offices without an appointment. If you have an appointment booked, please make sure you bring water and dress for the hot weather. A cool space will be provided for appointments. Please also check before you travel and allow extra time in case of disruption
  • Waste and recycling crews may start their rounds earlier than usual to ensure staff stay safe. Please make sure bins are put these out the evening before collection so they are not missed
  • Croydon’s parks and open spaces are likely to be busier than normal. Please remember that barbecues and open fires are not permitted, and properly dispose of cigarettes during the current heat to avoid wildfires.

Keeping yourself and others safe 

  • Stay indoors, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest. When outdoors, cover up with suitable clothing, such as a hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
  • If you are doing a physical activity, such as exercising or walking the dog, plan to do these during cooler times of the day
  • Drink plenty of water and know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them
  • Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Older people, those with health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
  • Keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains. Do not open windows in high rise flats too far where there is a risk of a child falling. Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
  • To support the local community, we have created a list of Cool Spaces in Croydon. These are cool, well ventilated and friendly locations in the borough that you can visit for free to keep cool
  • Do not jump into open waters, such as rivers or lakes, to cool down. Jumping into cold water on a hot day can lead to cold water shock and drowning. If you get into trouble in the water, Float to Live. If you see someone else in trouble in the water, call 999 or 112. More information on water safety is available from the Canal & River Trust
  • Thunderstorms can develop during hot weather and may bring short bursts of very heavy rain. This can lead to localised surface water flooding, as drains may become temporarily overwhelmed. If you live in a basement or lower ground floor property, take extra care. Avoid staying in low‑lying rooms during heavy rain and be ready to move to a higher level if water starts to build up. Report road surface drainage problems through Love Clean Streets.

Save water

The Environment Agency declared a drought across London and other parts of southern England on 29 July after a long period of hot, dry weather. While this doesn’t mean water has run out, it does mean we all need to use it carefully.

Small changes at home can help protect water supplies during the dry weather. You can:

  • Take shorter showers
  • Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth
  • Only use your washing machine or dishwasher when it’s full
  • Use a watering can instead of a hose where possible.

A temporary hosepipe ban is now in place for Thames Water customers. Restrictions on hosepipes, sprinklers and pressure washers have been introduced due to dry weather and high demand. Some exemptions apply. Check the Thames Water website for full details and more tips on saving water.

Help prevent wildfires

Hot, dry weather means wildfires can spread quickly. You can help protect our open spaces by:

  • Never lighting fires or using disposable barbecues in parks or open spaces
  • Putting cigarettes out properly and never dropping them on the ground
  • Taking your litter home
  • Calling 999 immediately if you see a grass fire or wildfire.

Find more advice about preventing wildfires on the London Fire Brigade website.

By making a few simple changes, we can all help protect Croydon’s green spaces, reduce the risk of wildfires and use water wisely during the hot, dry weather.

Further advice and information

We are working with partners across the borough to ensure residents are kept safe in the sun and updated with any potential disruption.

  • Check the Met Office for updates and current temperatures.
  • Tfl are providing public transport updates on disruptions or cancellations due to the hot weather.
  • If you are concerned about someone sleeping rough, contact Streetlink through their website or call 0300 500 0914 to share their location.
  • Call 999 in an emergency. Less urgent matters can be referred to the following numbers: NHS health services (111), Police (101).
  • Residents can contact Croydon Council or by calling 020 8726 6000.