Amber heat health alert in place

Please be advised that an Amber Heat-Health Alert is in place in our area until 10 September. Please look out for yourselves and check up on friends, family and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

Please follow this advice to keep cool and comfortable and reduce health risks:

• Stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun - and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
• Shut windows when it is hotter outside. If it's safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler. 
• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don't go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you're vulnerable to the effects of heat.
• Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
• Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially cold drinks, regularly. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• Stay tuned to the weather forecast on the radio or TV, or on the Met Office website.
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
• Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
• Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear loose cool clothing and a wide-brimmed hat if you have to go out

If someone feels unwell, find them somewhere cool to rest. Give them plenty of fluids to drink. Seek medical help if symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, weakness, dizziness or cramps get worse or don't go away.

You can find more information and advice through the NHS to cope in hot weather (opens new window).