Health warning has been issued as hot weather strikes Cambridgeshire and Peterborough

People are being warned to take extra precautions as the heatwave makes its way across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.

The Met Office has declared a Hot Weather Alert in the East of England between Wednesday (24th June) and Friday (26th June) which means there is a high chance that an average temperature of 30C by day and 15C overnight will occur over the next two to three days.

Hot weather can be uncomfortable for many people, but can be dangerous for the very old, very young and those with chronic illnesses who feel the effects more acutely.

Val Thomas, Deputy Director of Public Health at Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council, said: “Hot weather is enjoyable for most people though for some it is uncomfortable. Sadly experience tells us that exposure to excessive heat can have a very serious effect upon your health.

“It is especially harmful for those with heart and lung problems as excessive heat can worsen their condition and may increase their risk of death. We’re asking people to look out for those at risk from high temperatures – the elderly, ill or the very young; to make sure they are able to keep cool.”

Here are some practical tips on how to stay cool and cope with the hot weather:

• Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions
• Shade or cover windows that are exposed to direct sunlight during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped.
• Drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
• Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
• Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
• Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling

Often warm weather can encourage us to go out and meet friends and family. To control the risk of infection keep 2 metres apart, limit contact with other people and wash your hands the moment you get home. For more ways to stay safe visit https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus

For more information, visit www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/Pages/Heatwave.aspx

Press release from Cambridgeshire County Council