Residents urged to stay safe in ‘heatwave’ warning

Temperatures across the county are expected to reach 29C over the coming days – the highest of the year – and residents are being urged to stay safe by Lincolnshire County Council.

Coun Patricia Bradwell, executive member for public health, said: “High temperatures can be dangerous, especially for people who may be particularly vulnerable such as older people, infants and those with serious illnesses, so look out for family, friends and neighbours during the heatwave.

“Everyone can enjoy the sun safely by following common sense measures such as keeping out of the heat at the hottest time of the day, avoiding sunburn and drinking plenty of water.”

An official heat health warning is triggered when temperatures are high enough on two consecutive days and during the night to have a significant effect on health.

If anyone is experiencing symptoms of heat exhaustion including dizziness, vomiting, confusion, headache or intense thirst, they are advised to rest immediately in a cool place and drink plenty of water.

If symptoms persist or worsen call a doctor on 111 or 999 if the person has collapsed.

Check the weather forecast and any high temperature health warnings at www.metoffice.gov.uk.

For more advice and tips on staying safe during the heatwave visit www.lincolnshire.gov.uk/news.

Lincolnshire County Council has offered some top tips on staying safe in the sun:

· Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm when the sun is at its hottest

· Apply a sunscreen that is at least SPF15 and reapply regularly

· Don’t be fooled by cloudy skies, 30-40 per cent of UV rays will still penetrate through cloud cover

· Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade,

· Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes and a hat

· Drink lots of cool drinks: water and fruit juice are best. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as these can dehydrate 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 infants, young children or animals

· 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.

· 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.