The UK is currently experiencing a heatwave, with temperatures soaring to over 30 degrees Celsius in some parts of the country. This can be a nightmare for hoteliers, as guests expect to be able to cool down in their rooms after a long day of sightseeing or business meetings. UK hoteliers need to take quick action to make sure their guests and staff are comfortable during the current heatwave to ensure guest and staff retention.
Tips to help in the heatwave:
Ensure air conditioning units are working properly
One of the most important things hoteliers can do to make their hotels more comfortable during a heatwave is to ensure that air conditioning units are working properly. This will ensure that guests can cool down in their rooms after a long day in the heat. Hoteliers should also make sure that fans are available in each room so that guests can use them if they prefer. This should be your number one priority, as guests will leave if the temperatures are unbearable and they’ll be more likely to leave you a bad review.
Fans can also help staff to stay cool during a heatwave. If staff are working in a hot environment, such as a kitchen, they can use fans to keep cool. This will help to prevent them from getting too hot and sweaty, which can make it difficult to work. Fans should also be used in any public areas possible, such as reception, to make it as comfortable as possible for both staff and guests.
Make sure there is plenty of cold water available
Another important thing hoteliers can do to make their hotels more comfortable during a heatwave is to ensure that there is plenty of cold water available. This will help guests to stay hydrated and will also help to prevent them from getting too hot. Hoteliers should also make sure that there are plenty of water coolers, glasses and cups available so that guests can help themselves to water in common areas, taking the strain off bar and reception staff.
You should also provide bottled water in the common areas and rooms for those passing in and out your door. There’s nothing worse than getting heat stroke on holiday, so this gesture can go a long way in helping their overall health and well being.
Be proactive about keeping your hotel cold
Hotels are often at the forefront of providing relief from the heat, but they can also be one of the most difficult places to keep cool. With so many people coming and going, and often large windows that let in lots of heat, it can be a challenge to keep guests comfortable.
One is to make sure that the air conditioning is set at a colder, comfortable temperature than usual. Guests should also be advised to keep windows closed during the day to keep the heat out. You should also make sure that your house keeping staff and closing all windows and leaving the aircon on once they’ve finished cleaning the room. While this may increase your electricity bill, it will be worth it for a the positive reviews you receive upon check out.
Provide information about pools and other cold places to visit
Hoteliers should also provide information about pools and other cool places to visit during the heatwave. This will help guests to stay cool and will also make them feel more comfortable. Swimming is a great way to stay cool during the summer months, so hoteliers should encourage guests to take a dip in the pool if you have one, or give directions to where the closest local pool is. Other cool places you can suggest to visit while they stay with you include air-conditioned museums, libraries, and movie theaters.
Limit operating hours in hot areas
To help your staff operate in these conditions, consider limiting your restaurant hours. If you have a buffet, close it during the hottest part of the day. In your kitchen, try to stagger meal preparation so that not everyone is working in the heat at the same time. It’s also important to make sure your staff takes breaks often to cool down.
Send out safety information to guests before arrival
As a hotelier, it is important to send out safety information to guests before they arrive during a heatwave. This information should include tips on how to stay cool, such as by drinking plenty of water and avoiding the sun during the hottest hours of the day. In addition, guests should be advised to bring sunscreen and hats to protect themselves from the sun. Finally, hoteliers should provide information on how to spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.
Provide healthcare information
You’ll need to provide healthcare information for those feeling unwell in the high temperatures. This could include links to the NHS website, the location of the nearest pharmacy or hospital, or details of your own in-house doctor. Be sure to also provide information on how to spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, as these can be very dangerous.
It’s also important to make sure that guests are aware of the risks of spending too much time in the sun. Provide information about the best times to go outside, and encourage guests to wear sunscreen and hats when they are outdoors. Some travellers won’t know how to seek this information in a foreign country, so having it readily available is an essential.
In conclusion, there are a few simple steps that hoteliers can take to make their hotel more comfortable during a heatwave. By taking these steps, hoteliers can ensure that their guests have a comfortable stay despite the hot weather.
