With temperatures rising to forecasted record levels this
weekend, UKHSA and the Met Office is reminding people to take
precautions to stay safe through the hot weather.
The hottest temperatures are expected on Monday and Tuesday, with
highs of 40°C possible.
A Level 4 alert has been issued for the first time since the
Heatwave Plan for
England was introduced in 2004.
Top tips for staying safe in hot weather include:
- look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool
and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and
those who live alone are particularly at risk
- stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the
sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially
infants, young children or animals
- check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
- try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when
the UV rays are strongest
- walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed
hat, if you have to go out in the heat
- avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
- make sure you take water with you if you are travelling
- take care and make sure to follow local safety
advice if you are going into the water to cool down
- check medicines can be stored according to the instructions
on the packaging
The government’s Level 4 alert indicates that a severe heatwave
could have impacts beyond health and social care with potential
effects on transport systems, food, water, energy supplies and
businesses.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) will continue to
monitor any heat-related illness and work closely with the Met
Office, the NHS and other government departments to assess the
impacts of this hot weather.
Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection
at UKHSA said:
Temperatures in England next week are likely to reach record
levels, and it’s important we all know how to stay well in hot
weather. Check up on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours to
make sure they stay hydrated, keep cool and know how to keep
their homes cool.
Professor Penny Endersby, Chief Executive at the Met Office,
said:
This is the first time we have issued a Red National Severe
Weather Warning for extreme heat and the first time 40°C has been
forecast in the UK. In this country we’re used to treating a hot
spell as a chance to go and play in in the sun. This is not that
sort of weather.
We have seen when climate change has driven such unprecedent
severe weather events around the world that it can be difficult
for to make the best decisions because nothing in our life
experiences has led us to know what to expect.
More information on the common signs
and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke are available
on NHS.UK.
UKHSA’s ‘beat the heat’
checklist identifies suitable actions people can take to protect
themselves during periods of hot weather.
Read our ‘staying
safe in extreme heat blog’ for advice on how to stay well in
hot weather.
