Health officials issue safety warning as Midlands braces heatwave
UKHSA Midlands is urging to take sensible precautions to stay safe during the heatwave this week
People in the Midlands are being urged to take extra care during the current heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach the high thirties over the coming days.
The Met Office has issued a red Heat-Health Alert for the region for today and tomorrow, warning that the extreme temperatures could have significant impacts on health services and lead to travel disruptions.
Jharna Kumbang, a consultant at UKHSA Midlands, said residents should take steps to keep cool and avoid the hottest parts of the day.
Dr Kumbang said: "We're advising people to keep their homes cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms exposed to direct sunlight and to avoid spending prolonged periods outdoors between 11am and 3pm, when UV levels are at their highest.
"Anyone heading outside should wear suitable clothing, including a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, seek shade where possible and apply sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 and a four or five-star UVA rating.
"Sunscreen should also be reapplied regularly throughout the day."
UKHSA is also encouraging people to drink plenty of fluids, avoid excessive alcohol consumption and carry water when travelling.
Residents are also being asked to check on relatives, friends and neighbours who may be more vulnerable to the effects of hot weather, particularly older people and those with underlying health conditions.
People should never leave infants, young children or animals in parked vehicles, even for a short period, as temperatures inside can rise rapidly.
For those planning physical activities, such as exercising or walking the dog, they are advised to do so during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
Dr Kumgang also warns that extreme heat can have serious health implications across region.
Dr Kumgang said: "With older adults and people with pre-existing medical conditions facing the greatest risks, the hot weather can also increase demand on health and social care services and create additional challenges for care providers supporting vulnerable people."
UKHSA is urging everyone to follow the advice and take sensible precautions to stay safe during the heatwave.