The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office guidance, introduced on Tuesday (13th June), remains in force until 9am, Monday (19th June).
A yellow Heat-Health Alert means a likely increase in the use of health care services by vulnerable people and a rise in risk to health for individuals over the age of 65 or anyone with pre-existing health conditions.
Given this residents are asked to check in on vulnerable families, friends and neighbours to make sure they keep safe and well.
The latest update follows the first amber Heat-Health Alert issued under UKHSA's new Weather-Health Alerting System ahead of last weekend's hot weather, when the barometer hit 30°C in some parts.
“...residents are urged to keep checking in on the very young, elderly and those with health conditions”
Kent County Council (KCC) Director of Public Health, Dr Anjan Ghosh said: “With hot weather forecast to continue into next week, residents are urged to continue checking in on the very young, elderly and those with health conditions, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, who are particularly vulnerable to the effects of higher temperatures.
“Other simple steps to stay safe include wearing sunscreen, UV glasses and loose, comfortable clothing.
"If you need to drive always carry water, food and any medications you need in your car, and follow local safety advice when going into the water to cool down.”
Eileen Sills, Chief Nurse at NHS Kent and Medway, said: “However much we might like the sun, we know that it can have detrimental effects on our health, especially for the young, our elderly residents and those who are most vulnerable.
“By taking simple precautions, such as staying hydrated and finding shade during the hottest parts of the day, you can significantly reduce the risk of becoming ill and needing the services of the NHS.
“Please also do check in on your vulnerable neighbours, families and friends to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”
The South East, along with the rest of England, is covered by a yellow Heat-Health Alert until Monday 19th June
Other key tips to stay well in warmer weather include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids like water and limiting how much alcohol you consume
- Closing the curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler
- Never leaving anyone, particularly babies, young children, and the elderly, and also animals, in a closed, parked vehicle, and
- Being aware that the sea is still cold at this time of year so taking care and following local safety advice when going into the water to cool down.
Should you become unwell, unless it is an emergency, please remember to use 111 as your first point of contact for medical support. By phoning 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk, you will be directed to the right service for you. In an emergency, always call 999.
You can also visit Kent and Medway Integrated Care System’s website – https://www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk – which lists local services, such as pharmacies and urgent treatment centres.
The NHS website – www.nhs.uk – provides advice and guidance throughout the year on how to keep fit and well, including staying safe in hot weather
For more tips about staying safe and healthy at this time of year, visit the Met Office’s Weather Ready page here: WeatherReady - Met Office
More information about what KCC does to protect Kent communities during a heatwave is available here
You can sign up for UKHSA Weather Health Alerts here and specify what region you would like to receive alerts for.
