UKHSA issues heat health alerts across England

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued heat-health alerts (HHA) for 8 regions of England, warning that rising temperatures this week may increase health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups.

Amber alerts will be in place for the East Midlands, East of England, South East and London regions from 9am on Monday 3 August to 9am on Wednesday 5 August. The North West, Yorkshire and The Humber, West Midlands and South West regions will be under a yellow alert during the same period.

Under UKHSA and the Met Office’s Weather-Health alerting system, an amber Heat Health alert means that any impacts will likely 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

Polly Ashmore, Acting Consultant in Public Health at the UK Health Security Agency, said:

“Periods of hot weather can result in serious health outcomes, especially for older adults, and it is therefore important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.

“We are urging health and social care services in affected regions to ensure they are prepared, and reminding people to look out for elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, making sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.

“Simple steps such as staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool are some of the key ways to help keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather.”

UKHSA guidance on staying safe in hot weather is available online. There you can find a full list of the groups who are especially at risk, as well as advice on keeping yourself and others safe during periods of hotter weather, such as:

• keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
• look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
• drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
• never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
• try to avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest – if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
• walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
• make sure you take water with you if you are travelling
• take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down
• check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging
• 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 – also check weather forecasts to see when it will be cooler

More information on common symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and what to do if you or someone else experiences them are available on NHS.UK.