Summer has arrived but Stockport Council has issued hot weather and heatwave advice to residents and businesses in the Stockport area as the experts forecast a prolonged period of warm and even very hot sunshine.
Extreme heat can force the body into overdrive
as it tries to stay cool through perspiration.
Children and older people are particularly at
risk. Before a heatwave, ensure you have plenty
of cold fluids available.
During a heatwave:
Try to keep your house cool, closing blinds or
curtains can help. At night, keep your sleeping
area well ventilated. Night cooling allows the
body to recuperate.Try to stay cool by taking
cool showers or baths and/or sprinkle yourself
several times a day with cool water. Avoid too
much exercise which can cause heat
exhaustion or heat stroke and can be fatal.
Fatigue is an early sign of heat stress.
Drink plenty of fluids but not alcohol which
dehydrates the body. Try to maintain a normal
healthy diet increasing, where possible, salads
and fruit. If driving, keep your vehicle well
ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Drink plenty of
water and have regular rest breaks.
If you have elderly neighbours who may be at
risk during a heatwave, try to visit them daily.
Stay in the shade where possible and avoid
being in the sun for long periods.
Before going out in the sun, check you have appropriate sun cream for your particular type of skin.
During sunny weather:
The sun’s strength (UV index) can be high at many times of the year – it doesn’t have to be hot. The UV index can be strong through cloud. If you go outdoors, wear lightweight and light coloured clothes, high factor sunscreen and a wide brimmed hat. Re-apply an appropriate factor of sun cream regularly during the day.
Do not leave children or animals in parked vehicles. Even on cool days, strong sunshine can make car interiors very hot.
People should be aware of local weather forecasts.
The Department of Health’s Heatwave Plan for England raises public awareness in the event of a heatwave. It will be increasingly relevant in adapting to the impact of climate change. A copy of the plan is available from www.dh.gov.uk or from the Council website www.stockport.gov.uk
For further guidance around heatwave health visit NHS Choices website at www.nhs.uk/summerhealth