The UK Health Security Agency has issued the highest level of alert in response to the severe heatwave.
To prevent heat-related illness, we are advising all patients, wherever possible, to:
- Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
- Plan physical activity for cooler times of day
- Keep homes cool by closing windows and curtains in sun-facing rooms
- Wear suitable clothing, hats and sunglasses, and use sunscreen outdoors
- Drink plenty of fluids and limit alcohol and caffeine
- Check on older neighbours, relatives and friends
- Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and seek help if symptoms develop
Heat exhaustion can include tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea, and excessive sweating.
If symptoms worsen or do not improve, this can lead to heatstroke which is a medical emergency and urgent help should be sought