Extreme Heat Warning

A hot spell is likely to develop from Sunday, likely peaking early next week, leading to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure.

What to expect

  • Adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat. Government advice is that 999 services should be used in emergencies only; seek advice from 111 if you need non-emergency health advice.

  • The wider population are likely to experience some adverse health effects including sunburn or heat exhaustion (dehydration, nausea, fatigue) and other heat related illnesses

  • Some changes in working practices and daily routines likely to be required

  • An increased chance that some heat-sensitive systems and equipment may fail, potentially leading to localised power cuts and the loss of other services to some homes and businesses

  • More people are likely to visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers leading to an increased risk of water safety incidents

  • Some delays to road, rail and air travel are possible, with potential for welfare issues for those who experience prolonged delays

Tips for coping in hot weather

  • Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying health conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk

  • 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 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

  • Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat

  • Wear light-coloured, loose clothing

  • Avoid exercising in the hottest parts of the day

  • Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling

  • If you are going into open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice

Things you can do to cool someone down

If someone has heat exhaustion, follow these 4 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.

Stay with them until they're better.

They should start to cool down and feel better within 30 minutes

​CALL 999 IF:

​You or someone else have any signs of heatstroke:

  • feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water

  • not sweating even while feeling too hot

  • a high temperature of 40C or above

  • fast breathing or shortness of breath

  • feeling confused

  • a fit (seizure)

  • loss of consciousness

  • not responsive

Heatstroke can be very serious if not treated quickly.

Put the person in the recovery position if they lose consciousness while you're waiting for help.

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