Enjoy the sun and stay protected

Enjoy the sun and stay protected

Areas around England are expected to experience hot weather over the next few days according to Met Office forecasts, and the council is reminding residents to be prepared.

An amber warning for ‘extreme heat’ is in place from today, Thursday 11 August, to Sunday 14 August.

Temperatures will increase across much of the UK over the next few days and will be highest on Friday and Saturday. In addition to high daytime temperatures, which are expected to be over 30 (degrees Celsius) in Cheshire, it will remain very warm overnight.

The period of hot weather is expected to end on Monday and thunder storms are possible from Monday afternoon.

Stay safe in the heat

Severe heat can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Some people are more at risk than others, including older people, infants and people with medical conditions.

Even if temperatures do not hit the extreme levels expected, the council is still advising people to keep safe in the sun, seek shade to cool down and keep hydrated with plenty of cool fluids.

It is important throughout heatwave periods to:

  • Wear loose fitting, cotton clothing that covers your body as much as possible
  • Apply SPF 30+ UVA sunscreen with a star rating of five, at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun
  • Wear protective clothing including a sun hat and sunglasses
  • Shade from the sun whenever possible, especially between 11am and 3pm
  • Have plenty of cold drinks, and eat cold foods with a high water content like salads and fruit
  • Have a cool shower, bath or wash
  • Keep your living space as well-ventilated as possible by opening windows if the air feels cooler outside, and by closing curtains that get morning or afternoon sun – but be careful if you have metal blinds as these can absorb heat
  • Keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air
  • Use electric fans, which may provide some relief if temperatures are below 35°C

Spot the signs of heatstroke

Symptoms of heatstroke may include high temperature, heavy sweating that suddenly stops, hot and/or dry skin and a rapid heartbeat, as well as rapid breathing. It is important to take immediate action if danger symptoms of heatstroke are present. You should:

  • Move quickly to somewhere cool
  • Drink fluids, preferably water
  • Do not take aspirin or paracetamol – this can make you worse (but do carry on taking all other prescribed medicines)
  • Seek further advice from NHS 111, a doctor, or ring 999 if the person has collapsed

Warrington Borough Council’s Director of Public Health, Thara Raj, said: “We are currently experiencing high temperatures and this will continue over the coming days, so it’s really important we keep cool and stay safe while enjoying the sunshine.

“High temperatures can be dangerous – young children and older people are especially vulnerable during periods of hot weather. It’s important that you keep babies under six months out of direct sunlight. I would also urge residents to take the time to check on older relatives or neighbours to make sure they are coping and know how to keep cool and comfortable.”

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