What is an amber heat health alert and how can vulnerable people stay safe?
Health authorities have issued a yellow heat health warning for some areas in England.
The warnings, which mean significant impacts are likely across health and care services, cover the East Midlands, West Midlands, the east of England, London and the South East.
They will remain in force from 2pm on Friday until 5pm next Wednesday and will replace the milder amber alerts that were previously in place.
So what do the warnings mean and how can vulnerable people stay safe?
What warnings are available?
The UK Health Safety Agency has issued a yellow heat health alert for the East Midlands, West Midlands, East of England, London and the South East; Yellow alerts were in place for the South West, North West, North East and Yorkshire and the Humber.
What do these warnings mean?
The warning system aims to provide early warning to healthcare providers, the social care sector, voluntary organizations and Government departments that temperatures may affect the health of the population.
Warnings (yellow, amber or red) depend on the level of impact expected.
Yellow alerts generally mean that the temperatures are unlikely to affect most people, but those who are particularly vulnerable may struggle to cope.
However, a yellow warning indicates that the impact is expected to be felt across the healthcare service and there is potential for the entire population to be at risk. In these cases, a coordinated intervention of the services is required.
How long are they in place?
Warnings are valid from 14:00 on Friday until 17:00 next Wednesday.
Which groups are particularly vulnerable in hot weather?
According to the NHS, the most vulnerable groups are older people, particularly women over 75, or those who live alone or in care homes.
People with long-term illnesses, such as heart or lung conditions, diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and some mental health problems, as well as patients taking multiple medications, are at higher risk.
Babies and very young children will have a hard time staying cool, along with people addicted to alcohol or drugs, or people with Alzheimer’s disease.
What are the main risks?
Not drinking enough water can cause dehydration, while overheating can worsen symptoms in people with heart or respiratory problems.
Heat exhaustion can occur when the body becomes overheated and loses too much water and salt.
Symptoms may include fatigue, dizziness, headache, feeling sick, excessive sweating, and being very thirsty.
If people do not cool down within 30 minutes, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke, a life-threatening illness.
If you suspect someone is suffering from heat exhaustion, the NHS recommends moving them to a cool place, removing all unnecessary clothing, giving them cold water or a sports drink, and cooling their skin by spraying cold water or ventilating.
How can vulnerable groups stay safe in an environment? heat wave?
The NHS advises people to stay out of the sun as much as possible, especially between 11am and 3pm.
Wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothing, avoid exercise, alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and stick to cold foods and drinks.
People can also keep their homes cool by closing windows during the day and opening them at night after temperatures drop. Electric fans can also help if the temperature is below 35°C, the NHS said.
