Health warning issued as local region set for extended period of hot weather

As temperatures of more than 30 degrees hit Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire, the local NHS is advising residents to keep their cool and follow the latest health and care advice.

Warmer-than-usual weather conditions, especially those lasting for a prolonged period of time, similar to what is currently being felt, can pose a risk to health.

People with underlying health conditions, as well as young children and those over the age of 65, are at a greater risk of experiencing a potentially serious heat-related health condition, such as dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

As such, the NHS in Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire is spreading the message of how to stay cool, comfortable and, most importantly, safe throughout the heatwave.

Staying indoors during the warmest and brightest part of the day, which is usually between 11am and 4pm, as well as taking extra precautions when going outside, such as wearing loose-fitting clothes, seeking shade wherever possible and regularly applying sun cream to exposed skin, will greatly lower the risk of being caught out by the sun.

Hydration is also key during hot weather, and people are advised to consume plenty of water, and to stay clear of beverages that could cause dehydration to occur quicker, such as coffee, alcohol and energy drinks.

If a person does become unwell in the heat, acting fast is key and it is best to move out of the sun into a cool, indoor area, where symptoms can be managed safely and effectively.

Most people begin to feel better after cooling down, having a cold drink and following the tips on how to treat heat-related conditions listed online at the NHS website.

Gill May, Chief Nurse, Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board, said: “We want people to enjoy the summer, but in a way that is safe.

“Most of the advice for staying well in the sun is common sense, but there are some steps people can often overlook, such as checking in on older friends and relatives and making sure there is enough medicine in the home, and that items are stored correctly.

“All of our NHS services are extremely busy at the moment, so following this advice will not only help families stay well, but also support our hard-working teams in caring for those people most in need.”

More information about sun safety is available at www.nhs.uk, while further details about local health and care services can be found at www.bsw.icb.nhs.uk.