A LEVEL three heatwave alert has been issued across Solihull until Saturday, August 13.
The UK Health Security Agency is advising people to look out for those who are older or with existing health conditions, and young children.
Temperatures are expected to hit highs of 31C in the borough – but will not be as extreme as the record-breaking 40C heat in July, the Met Office said.
Level 3 heatwave alerts are triggered as soon as temperatures are high enough to have a significant effect on health.
This means that the vulnerable and those who are at-risk are more likely to suffer in the heat and could become seriously ill with health complications.
Solihull Council has issued the following guidance to try and keep people well in the sun and heat:
– Try to stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day)
– Take a bottle of water with you when out and about and especially when travelling by car or public transport.
– Ensure that babies, children or elderly people are not left alone in stationary cars.
– Have cool baths or showers and splash yourself with cool (but not very cold) water or place a damp cloth on the back of your neck to cool down.
– Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool. Try to sleep in the coolest room too.
– Double bag food waste and nappies and squeeze the air out of the top of the bags before you tie them.
– Give pets plenty of clean, fresh water to drink and a cool and shady place to rest.
People with heart problems, breathing difficulties or serious illnesses may find their symptoms become worse in hot weather, so should make sure they have enough medicines in stock and take extra care to keep cool.
Contact your GP if your symptoms become worse.
Contact your doctor, a pharmacist or NHS 111 if you are worried about your health or someone else’s health during a heatwave, especially if you are taking medication, if you feel unwell or have any unusual symptoms.
For more visit the Solihull Council website or call the Solihull Helpline on 0121 704 8080.
Anyone who needs accessing food, help with getting to appointments or general information about keeping cool in the heat should contact Solihull Connect on 0121 704 8000.
