School Lane SurgeryAs the hot weather continues, please stay safe and stay well.
Whilst many of us enjoy the sunshine, it’s important to remember that sustained periods of high temperatures do bring health risks, especially to older people, those with certain medical conditions and babies and young children – so it’s important to take steps to stay well and stay as cool as possible as the temperatures soar.
This week and into the weekend the forecast is for high temperatures so it is important to be prepared as much as possible. There are some very simple steps people can take to stay safe and well in hot weather:
- Stay as cool as possible by keeping out of the sun and wearing light clothing. If you do need to go outside, try to avoid the hottest part of the day (usually 11:00 – 15:00)
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other drinks, avoiding alcohol
- Stay protected by wearing UV sunglasses and a hat – and apply sunscreen with a high SPF rating and UVA protection and walk in the shade if you can
- Check on elderly friends, relatives, and neighbours as they will be at greater risk from the heat – and take extra care with babies and young children, who are also more vulnerable to becoming unwell in the hot weather
If you feel unwell in the hot weather, as well as the GP surgery, there are a range of services available to help including:
- Pharmacies – a good place to start for health advice and over-the-counter medicines
- NHS 111 online at www.111.nhs.uk helps link you up with the service you need (for children under 5 years please call 111 instead) – and NHS 111 by phone 24/7 where a health advisor can help you get the care you need in the right place
- Remember 999 and A&E are for critically ill people so always call or go to A&E straight away if it is a life-threatening situation.
There’s lots more information online to help you stay safe during hot weather. Visit the UK Health Security Agency and NHS websites including their pages on how to beat the heat and on heat exhaustion and heatstroke.