A local NHS service has urged residents to stay safe and take precautions against the ongoing heatwave, set to peak between Sunday, 17, and Tuesday, 19 July.

Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS said children, older people and other vulnerable groups easily fall victim to the sun’s heat and rays.

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And it is important to be aware that higher temperatures can exacerbate the symptoms of long-term health conditions, such as respiratory and heart conditions.

They said thousands of people yearly are admitted to hospital because of heat-related ailments, including severe sunburn, heat exhaustion and sun and heat stroke.

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Dr David Levy, the chief medical director for NHS Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board, said: “Like a lot of people, I very much enjoy the sunny weather and intend to go for a nice walk this weekend.

“But I will be taking precautions like taking plenty of water, applying high-factor sunblock and taking my phone with me in case I need to call for help.

“If you’re out and about during this heatwave and you suffer from allergies, remember to take the right medication with you, and please check in on neighbours and loved ones who suffer the most from heat and pollen.”

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They said residents must be careful not to leave children or vulnerable people exposed to high temperatures or strong sunlight for prolonged periods of time, whether outside or inside a car.

Stocking up on sunblock (preferably sun factor 50), drinking plenty of fluids, walking in the shade and avoiding excess alcohol are just a few tips for coping with the hot weather.

Being outdoors also presents a risk for those with allergies, with an increase in the number of people admitted to hospital due to pollen – and wasp, hornet and insect stings.

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The NHS has offered tips to protect yourself if you are at home:

• If it is cooler inside than out, shut and shade your windows.
• If it is hotter inside than out, open windows for ventilation and try to get air flowing around the home.
• If you are vulnerable to the effects of heat or have a pre-existing medical condition, try not to go out in direct sunlight between the hours of 11am to 3pm. However, be aware the maximum temperature on a hot summer day almost always occurs after 3pm, typically between 4pm and 5pm.
• Drink cold drinks such as water or fruit juice regularly to stay hydrated, but avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• If you are going outside, stay in the shade, wear a hat, cool clothes that cover you and apply sunscreen.

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If you are going on holiday or a day out, make sure you are prepared, especially in case of being stuck in extreme temperatures in a car or train:

• Take plenty of fluids, preferably in a cool bag.
• Pack a hat for everyone and enough sunscreen (and apply regularly).
• Make sure that any available air ventilation is working.
• Take regular breaks, allowing the driver and passengers to move about and get fresh air.
• If anyone remains in the car, make sure it is not for a prolonged period, and ensure they have access to ventilation and fluids.
• Do not leave children unattended in a hot car.
• Do not leave pets unattended in a hot car.

For more information, visit – https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/

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