Torbay Council’s Public Health Team is warning that areas around England may experience weather hot enough to trigger heat health alerts over the next few days, according to Met Office forecasts.

Even if temperatures do not hit extreme levels, Public Health England (PHE) still advises people to keep safe in the sun, seek shade to cool down and keep hydrated with plenty of cool fluids.

Top advice for being sun safe:

  • Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm.
  • Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection, wear a wide brimmed hat and light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. These measures should minimise the risk of sunburn.
  • Drink lots of cool drinks and when travelling ensure you take water with you
  • Look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses
  • Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially older people, infants, young children or animals

Children and adults need to take particular care when they are directly exposed to the sun; this includes attending outdoor events such as school sports days.

Remember that it can get uncomfortably hot indoors too. Try to keep your bedroom and living space cool by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening your windows at cooler times of the day and overnight when you can. Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat.

Health and social care workers should regularly check on vulnerable patients, share sun safety messages, make sure room temperatures are set below 26 degrees and ensure patients have access to cold water and ice.

Local authorities, professionals and community groups can prepare for hot weather by reviewing the Heatwave Plan on the Public Health England website.

Torbay’s Deputy Mayor and Executive Lead for Health and Wellbeing, Derek Mills, said: “While many people enjoy hot weather, high temperatures can be dangerous, especially for people who may be particularly vulnerable such as older people, young children and those with serious illnesses.

“Everyone can enjoy the sun safely by keeping out of the heat at the hottest time of the day, avoiding sunburn and staying hydrated with plenty of cool drinks.

“The elderly and those with long-term illnesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of very hot weather, so it's important to look out for them and keep indoor areas as cool as possible.”

To see the Heatwave Plan for England for more information, please visit Public Health England website.

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