Health chiefs have issued a yellow heat-health alert for the South West, warning that high temperatures over the coming days may put vulnerable people at increased risk.
A yellow Heat-Health Alert is in place for the South West from this afternoon (Friday) until 5pm on Wednesday, May 27.
Under UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office's Weather-Health Alerting System, a yellow Heat-Health Alert means that impacts may include:
- increased use of health care services by vulnerable populations
- an increase in risk to health for individuals aged over 65 years or those with pre-existing health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases
Dr Beth Smout, interim regional deputy director of health protection for the South West, said: "We know that even moderate heat can lead to serious health problems, especially for older people and those with certain health conditions.
"So it's important that everyone across the South West takes simple precautions while enjoying the warm weather over the coming days.
"If you have friends, family or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecasts and are following the necessary advice."
The UKHSA is advising people to:
- keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- if you do go outside, cover up with 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
- if you are going to do a physical activity (for example, exercising or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler, such as the morning or evening
- know the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else has them
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