Heatwave temperatures hit the region

South & West Yorkshire residents are being advised that Heatwave temperatures have been reached in our region. Whilst this may be good news to many, people need to be aware of the health risks during hot weather, especially over prolonged periods.

The key message from SWYPFT for preventing heat related illness is simply to keep cool. The best ways to do this include the following:

Stay out of the Heat:

Try and plan your day in a way that avoids the heat. Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm. If you must go out, stay in the shade as much as possible, apply sunscreen. Wear a hat and light loose fitting clothes, preferably cotton.  If you will be outside for some time, take plenty of water with you.  Avoid extreme physical exertion. If you must undertake strenuous outdoor activity, like sport, DIY or gardening, keep it for cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening.

Cool yourself down:

• Have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks.
• Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content.
• Take a cool shower, bath or body wash.
• Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck.
• Keep the house as cool as possible by drawing curtains, opening windows at night, or using a fan if necessary.

Watch out for others:

• Keep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people and make sure they are able to keep cool and remind them to drink plenty of water and often.
• Ensure that babies, children, elderly people and animals do not remain in stationary cars.
• Ensure that children are protected with a hat and sun block and give them plenty of fluids.

For further advice:

If you are worried about what to do, either for yourself or somebody you know who you think might be at risk, go to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/heatwave-plan-for-england or Contact your doctor, a pharmacist or call for NHS advice by telephoning 111 if you have any unusual symptoms during a heatwave.

Watch for cramp in your arms, legs or stomach, feelings of mild confusion, weakness or problems sleeping. If you have these symptoms, rest for several hours, keep cool and drink water or fruit juice. Seek medical advice if they get worse or don’t go away.

Contact your doctor, a pharmacist or NHS 111 (telephone 111) if you are worried about your health during a Heatwave, especially if you are taking medication, or if you feel unwell or have any unusual symptoms.