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The UK Heatwave

24th July 2019

Many parts of the UK are experiencing hot weather this week and heatwave alerts have been issued across the country. While many people are enjoying the sunshine, it can also be extremely dangerous.

As a result, Public Health England is advising everyone to take heed of some important advice over the next few days.

Struggling to Adapt to the Heat

Temperatures have been increasing throughout the week, which may leave older people, young children and those with long-term conditions, including heart and lung diseases, struggling to adapt to the heat. So, be sure to keep an eye on friends and family who may be at risk.

Last year the hot weather lasted in the UK for several weeks and there was an increase in the number of people who attended GP surgeries and called NHS 111 for heat related conditions such as sunburn, sunstroke, heatstroke and insect bites. This year, as the hot temperatures hit, be sure to be prepared!

Dr Thomas Waite, Consultant in Health Protection at Public Health England, says: “The over 65s, young children and those with health conditions can find normal activities a strain when temperatures get this high. To stay cool, avoid the sun during the hottest parts of the day, carry water with you when travelling and think what you can do stay cool when going to outdoor events.”

Top Tips for Staying Safe

To ensure you keep safe in the hot weather, follow these simple steps from Public Health England:

  • Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions
  • Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
  • Drink plenty of water. Sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated
  • Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children and animals
  • Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
  • Take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into the water to cool down
  • Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat
  • Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
  • Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
  • Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling

Boots and Superdrug

Take a trip to Boots and Superdrug in Garden Square for all the products you’ll need to ensure you’re safe in the sunshine this summer. Their knowledgeable staff will also be able to advice on any heat related health concerns you may have.

General information about the current heatwave and other public health advice can be found at Public Health England.