Public Health England has reminded everyone to stay safe in the heat after a Level 2 Heat-health alert was declared by The Met Office.
The warning is triggered when the Met Office forecasts that there is a 60% or greater chance of temperatures being high enough on at least 2 consecutive days and the intervening night to have a significant effect on health.
Dr Paul Cosford, Director for Health Protection at Public Health England, reminded people that: “high temperatures can be dangerous, especially for people who may be particularly vulnerable such as older people, young children and those with serious illnesses”.
Dr Paul Cosford also advised, “Try to keep bedroom and living spaces cool, by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening your windows at cooler times of the day and overnight when you can. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat. A trip to a park where there’s lots of shade or a public building that is air conditioned, may help offer some relief from the heat for vulnerable people.”
The hot weather could also particularly affect members of the Muslim community who are fasting during Ramadan as, during hot weather, it’s especially important to balance food and fluid intake between fasts and especially to drink enough water. In response to this, the Muslim Council of Britain and the NHS have published information for those likely to be affected.
A Heatwave Plan was also published earlier this year by Public Health England for such as circumstances as these. It sets out a series of clear actions that can be taken by healthcare organisations, local authorities, professionals working with vulnerable people, and individuals to help keep people safe during hot weather.
For more information, including the Heatwave Plan For England, please visit the Public Health England website.
