Temperatures are set to soar this week, and NHS leaders in Lancashire and South Cumbria are urging the public to take extra precautions.
An amber heat-health alert has been issued across the whole of the North West to take effect from 1am on Wednesday 24 June until 11pm on Thursday 25.
This means that there is an increased risk a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions, and there may also be impacts on younger age groups. It is also expected that there will likely be increased demand on all health and social care services.
There are simple actions you can take to make sure you are prepared for hot weather and can take action to cool yourself and your home.
- Plan exercise during times of the day when it is cooler such as the early morning or the evening
- keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- drink plenty of fluids and limit your alcohol intake
- check on family, friends and neighbours who may be at higher risk of becoming unwell, and if you are at higher risk, ask them to do the same for you
- know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them
- Try to avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest
- If you are going out during this time, cover up with suitable clothing, wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen liberally and re-apply frequently
Dr Peter Gregory, associate medical director for primary care at NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: “Anyone can be affected by heat exhaustion and heatstroke, however more vulnerable people are at higher risk of becoming unwell if they get too hot.
“Heat exhaustion often has symptoms such as weakness, feeling faint, headache, feeling sick or intense thirst - it does not usually need emergency medical attention, but if you don’t take action, it can lead to heatstroke.
“Heatstroke is much more serious and you may experience confusion, hot skin that isn’t sweating, increased heartbeat, faster breathing or shortness of breath, and seizures. It is a medical emergency and you should call 999 if you or someone you are with is experiencing this.
“Avoiding direct sunlight and staying indoors during the hottest part of the day will certainly reduce your risk of any ill effects.”
If feeling unwell, get medical help as soon as possible. Pharmacists are experts in medicine and can provide treatment for a range of mild illnesses. Alternatively, speak to a GP or use the NHS 111 service (111.nhs.uk or call 111) if it’s an urgent medical problem. In a life-threatening emergency, visit A&E or call 999.