The UK Health Security Agency and Met Office core Heat-health alerting system runs from 1 June to 30 September. Exceptional alerts will be issued if necessary outside of this period. There are currently no heat alerts for the South East in force.
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Many of us enjoy the summer sun.
But hot weather can cause health issues for any of us - particularly for vulnerable people such as the elderly, very young and those with medical conditions.
It's because the human body has to work extra hard to keep cool.
So when temperatures climb:
- keep a close eye on older people, young children, and individuals with long term health conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, who may not be aware they are overheating – make sure they drink lots of water and aren't left to sit in strong sun
- keep cool at home – by closing curtains on windows that face the sun and opening windows at night when it's cooler outside than in
- be sun-savvy outside – travel with bottled water and use SPF30 or above sunscreen
“...checking in on the very elderly, young and those living with medical conditions can play a big part in keeping our communities safe”
Kent County Council (KCC) Director of Public Health, Dr Anjan Ghosh, said: "Lots of us enjoy sunny weather; but hot temperatures can cause a wide range of health issues, from minor to life-threatening, particularly for vulnerable individuals.
"Following basic advice and checking in on the very elderly, young and those living with medical conditions can play a big part in keeping our communities safe.
"Keeping well also reduces pressure on our hardworking NHS and emergency services.”
Other top tips for staying safe and well in hot weather include:
- staying hydrated by avoiding excess alcohol
- doing intense exercise in the cooler parts of the day
- carrying your asthma inhaler, if you use one, with you because hot weather and thunderstorms can make lung conditions worse. If you notice you need to use your inhaler more frequently because of the weather, please talk to your pharmacist, contact your GP or NHS 111
Dehydration, heat cramps, heat rash, dizziness and fainting, heat exhaustion and heart attacks are just some of the impacts of overheating.
Should you or anyone you know become unwell in hot weather:
- if it's not an emergency, visit or call NHS 111
- If you’re not sure what health service to use, go to Stop, Think, Choose
- In an emergency, always ring 999
“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”
Dr Ash Peshen, Deputy Chief Medical Officer 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.”
- For more information and advice, visit kent.gov/keepingcoolinhotweather.
