AMBER heat weather warnings are in force as temperatures continue to rise over the bank holiday weekend.
In some part of the Midlands forecasters are predicting temperatures of up to 31-degrees.
The Met Office and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have announced the warning, which will be in place until 5pm on Wednesday 27 May across the region.
According to the agency there are a number of risks including a rise in deaths, particularly among those ages 65 and over or with health conditions, an increased demand on all health and social care services, an affect on the ability of the workforce to deliver services and increased demand for power exceeding capacity.
Advice on how to stay safe has been issued by the UKHSA and the Met office.
Staying cool tips
- Keeping homes cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
Those going outside should wear suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- Keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- Anyone undertaking physical exercise – such as running – should plan their session during times of the day when it is cooler, such as the morning or evening
- Drink water or fruit juice regularly, even if you’re not feeling thirsty. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol, and if you do drink alcohol make sure you have lots of water or other non-alcoholic drinks as well
- Eat normally even though you may not be as hungry, you need a normal diet to replace salt losses from sweating. Try to have more cold foods, such as salads and fruit, as these contain a lot of water
- Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them. More is available from the NHS website here.
Keeping pets cool
High temperatures can even be life-threatening for pets.
The RSPCA said heatstroke is a big risk, and occurs when an animal can no longer lower their own body temperature.
The animal charity has offered the following advice to keeping pets safe and happy during the warmer weather:
- Ensuring pets have constant access to shaded areas and fresh, cold water. You can drop ice cubes into their bowls or freeze a toy full of treats to keep them hydrated and entertained. If you have cats, always double-check sheds and greenhouses before locking them, as pets often seek shade in these dangerous “heat traps”.
- Switch your walking routine to early morning or late evening when the air is cooler. Before heading out, perform the “pavement test” by touching the ground with your palm – if you cannot hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws
- Apply pet-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas like the nose and ear tips, especially for white-coated animals – pets can get sunburnt too, and too much UV exposure can increase their risk of skin cancer.
- Watch your pet closely for symptoms of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, excessive drooling, vomiting or having diarrhoea or uncoordinated movement. If your pet shows any of these signs, move them to a cool area, actively cool them down by covering them in cool water (avoiding the head) then contact a vet immediately.
Don’t place damp towels directly on their body, as this can trap heat and worsen their condition – you can place wet towels beneath your pet, and focus on pouring cool water all over their body.
- Check rabbits and other small mammals rear end twice a day, keeping it clean and well groomed, to prevent flystrike during the warm months.
