The Met Office has declared a yellow heat-health alert from 10am on Wednesday 9 July until 10am on Tuesday 15 July across the southeast of England.
The increase in temperature can cause risk to people’s health, so it’s important to look after yourself and each other. People most at risk of harm from hot weather include older people, the very young and people with pre-existing medical conditions.
During extremely hot weather there is a risk of developing heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heatstroke can occur if symptoms of heat exhaustion are left untreated, it can also occur suddenly without warning.
Signs of heat exhaustion can include tiredness, dizziness, headaches, feeling sick or being sick, cramps, fast breathing or heartbeat, a high temperature, being very thirsty, and weakness. In young children it can also include being very lethargic or floppy.
This kind of heat exhaustion is not usually serious and the person should return to their usual self within 30 minutes of cooling down. Move them to a cool place, remove all unnecessary clothing, like socks and jackets, get them to drink cool water and sponge them down with cold water or ice packs – especially around the neck and under the armpits.
If heat exhaustion becomes heatstroke however call 999 for immediate assistance. Signs of heatstroke include:
- Still feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking cool fluids
- A very high temperature (40C and above)
- Hot skin that’s not sweating
- A fast heartbeat, breathing or shortness of breath
- Confusion and lack of coordination
- Seizures or fits
- Losing consciousness
Put the person in the recovery position and keep them cool if they lose consciousness while you’re waiting for help.
We urge everyone to take extra care over the coming days to keep themselves safe and well by following these top tips:
Stay out of the heat
- Keep out of the sun between 11.00am and 3.00pm
- Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat
- Avoid extreme physical exertion
- Wear light, loose fitting, cotton clothes
Cooling down
- Have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
- Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content
- Take a cool shower, bath or body wash
- Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck
Dr Lara Alloway, chief medical officer at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight said: “To stay safe in hot weather, we recommend that you stay out of the sun during peak hours, typically between 11 am and 3 pm, and drink plenty of fluids. It's also important to wear light, loose-fitting clothing, seek shade when outdoors, and apply sunscreen.
“Additionally, please be mindful of the elderly and vulnerable, and check on them during periods of intense heat.”
If you are concerned for your health over the coming days please speak to your local pharmacist, call 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk if you feel it is urgent.