Important advice on Keeping Safe in Hot Weather
26.05.2009
NHS Gloucestershire is reminding people of the importance of taking care in hot weather, in response to Met Office warnings of a summer heatwave in the South West.
Local residents are being asked to keep a caring eye out for friends and neighbours, if temperatures in the summer months reach the levels currently predicted.
Heat can be particularly dangerous for the very young and old, and can make existing heart and respiratory problems worse. Sometimes the body can become overheated in a short space of time, and a condition called heatstroke can occur.
Symptoms of heat stroke can include headaches, dizziness, pale skin and vomiting. If you suspect someone may be experiencing symptoms, the advice is to move them to somewhere cool, loosen clothes and use a damp sheet or cloth to cool them down. If symptoms persist, seek medical advice or contact NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
Sunburn is also a serious risk during the summer months, and is a sign that ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun has damaged your skin cells. Getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple the risk of melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer.
Dr Shona Arora, Director of Public Health, said:
‘We want everyone to enjoy the good weather, but it’s important to know the risks from overexposure to the sun and high temperatures’.
‘We can all take simple steps to keep ourselves and others safe. Children, the elderly and those who are ill are particularly vulnerable, and we are asking everyone to watch out for relatives and neighbours during the summer months’.
‘People with respiratory problems, should stay inside during the hottest part of the day and keep windows shaded’.
‘Young skin is exceptionally delicate, and can be easily damaged by the sun. Take extra care with children. Cover exposed skin and wear a hat, and make sure you use a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15’.
Other tips for coping during a heatwave or in the sun include:
- Planning your day to stay out of the heat if possible, and avoid going outside during the hottest part of the day, 11am-3pm.
- Drinking cold drinks, like water or fruit juice regularly, and avoiding tea, coffee and alcohol.
- Shutting and shading windows when it is hotter outside and opening them for ventilation when it cools down in the evening.
- Covering up with a shirt, hat and sun glasses to protect skin from the affects of UV rays and sun burn.
- Using sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15, and making sure to reapply sunscreen at least every 2 hours, or after going in water.
- Giving children a hat to wear to cover up at play times and lunch breaks, and, if they can't apply sunscreen at school, covering their exposed skin before they go.
