Cold couple
Hypothermia happens when the body’s core temperature reduces to dangerous levels, it may not be something you think of in summer but it can and will kill all year round.
The Office of National Statistics revealed that hypothermia killed 132 people during the summer of 2008 to 2010, all of which were warm and dry summers compared to the last two we have had.
Universal-textiles.com found that Brits are not prepared for being caught in bad weather over the summer.
- -Over half of Brits think that they are unlikely to die from hypothermia over the summer.
- -Only 13% take thermal clothing when they go away.
- -45% of people don’t take any clothes to cater for cold weather when the forecast is good.
- -Two thirds neglect to take food or clothing in the event of weather change.
- -4% of campers forget to take warm clothes to sleep in of a night.
Ravi Karia, managing director of thermal clothing specialist Universal Textiles, said:
“It is shocking how many deaths there are from hypothermia in the summer, and yet most people are completely unaware of the risk.
“When holidaying in the UK, you should take a variety of clothing for all the family. The weather can change very quickly. It is important to wear layers that you can easily add or take off, and I recommend thermal clothing for late night walks, boat trips and camping.”
Despite the elderly being at the highest risk of Hypothermia, one in 100 people over the age of 55 don’t think of the condition and summer as being synonymous
As many believe, the temperature does not have to dip below freezing for hypothermia to be a risk. With lack of preparation in the summer months when a turn for the worst occurs it can make this condition deadly.
Hypothermia often occurs then the temperature drops in an evening and people are not prepared for the risks. With many Brits choosing to stay in the UK this year for their holidays it is important that they are aware of the risks and plans accordingly, especially when camping.