Stay safe in the heat.

Following the sunshine this weekend the Met Office have issued a heatwave alert, with temperatures expected to remain high until Wednesday (when thunderstorms are expected).

Most of us welcome hot weather, but when it’s too hot for too long it can pose health risks for some people.

The NHS have provided some helpful tips for coping in hot weather that you might find useful:

• Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. You can open the windows 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 cold drinks regularly, such as water and diluted fruit juice. Avoid excess alcohol, caffeine (tea, coffee and cola) or drinks high in sugar.
• Listen to alerts on the radio, TV and social media about keeping cool. 
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
• Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat and sunglasses if you go outdoors.
• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

If you’re worried about yourself or a vulnerable neighbour, friend or relative, you can contact the local environmental health office at your local authority.

More advice on how to reduce risk can be obtained from NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk/summerhealth, NHS 111 or from your local chemist.

For further updates please see the Met Office Heat-Health Watch page at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/heat-health/