Tips on staying cool as 30C heatwave prompts public health warning to vulnerable in Cambridgeshire

Temperatures could soar past 30C between today and Friday - and only drop to 15C overnight.

The heatwave has prompted a ‘Hot Weather Alert’ in the East of England from the Met Office, and warnings for older people, very young children and those with chronic illnesses.

Val Thomas, deputy director of public health at Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council, said: “Hot weather is enjoyable for most people though for some it is uncomfortable. Sadly experience tells us that exposure to excessive heat can have a very serious effect upon your health.

“It is especially harmful for those with heart and lung problems as excessive heat can worsen their condition and may increase their risk of death. We're asking people to look out for those at risk from high temperatures - the elderly, ill or the very young; to make sure they are able to keep cool."

The council urged everyone to look out for those who may be more vulnerable and offered these practical tips on keeping cool:

• Shade or cover windows that are exposed to direct sunlight during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped.
• Drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
• Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
• Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
• Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling.

There is also concern that warm weather will encourage people to break social distancing rules.

To help control the risk of coronavirus infection, people should stay two metres apart, limit contact with other people and wash hands the moment they get home.

For more ways to stay safe visit https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus.

For more on the heatwave, visit www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/Pages/Heatwave.aspx.

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