A SAFETY warning has been issued by a Warwickshire doctor, as forecasters predict tomorrow (Tuesday July 18) could be the hottest day ever recorded in the UK.
NHS Coventry and Warwickshire has urged caution, with temperatures in Warwickshire forecast to peak at a scorching 39ºC at around 4pm tomorrow – having reached around 36ºC today.
A Level 4 UK Health Security Agency Heat Health Alert has been issued, meaning there is risk of illness occurring among the fit and healthy, not just in high-risk groups.
Dr Sukhi Dhesi, GP Partner at Croft Medical Centre in Leamington, said: “As the UK continues to experience a severe heatwave, it is important that everyone protects themselves as much as possible from the effects of the heat. I would urge everyone to keep hydrated and stay out of the sun where possible, especially during the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm.
“If you have vulnerable family, friends or neighbours, please be sure to check on them and make them aware of how to stay safe during the warm weather. The risk of illness is very real when temperatures reach this level, and we should all be careful for as long as the heat persists.”
In particular, people are being asked to look out for the signs of heatstroke, which include a headache, dizziness and confusion, loss of appetite and feeling sick, excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin, cramps in the arms, legs and stomach, fast breathing or pulse, a high temperature of 38ºC or above, and being very thirsty.
If you suspect someone has heat stroke, follow the following four steps:
- Move them to a cool place
- Get them to lie down and raise their feet slightly
- Get them to drink plenty of water. Sports or rehydration drinks are OK
- Cool their skin – spray or sponge them with cool water and fan them. Cold packs around the armpits or neck are good, too.
You should stay with them until they are better, and they should start to cool down and their symptoms alleviate after 30 minutes.
999 should only be used in emergency. If you need non urgent medical advice then you can use the NHS111 service, and in particular NHS111 Online.
Some top tips to stay safe in extreme heat 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
- If you live alone, ask a relative or friend to phone to check that you are not having difficulties during periods of extreme heat
- Stay cool indoors – close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler, and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- If going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle – especially infants, young children or animals
- 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
- Check the latest weather forecast and temperature warnings.
