The UK is preparing for a major heatwave this week, with temperatures expected to exceed 30 degrees Celsius in some parts of the country. The Government has urged the public to stay alert to the coronavirus, while also providing advice on how to stay healthy in a heatwave.
The threshold for a heatwave is likely to be met across England and Wales this week, the Met Office has revealed.
The warmest parts of the UK could reach up to 34C on Thursday.
As a result, Public Health England (PHE) have issued a hot weather warning to those shielding from coronavirus, and vulnerable groups.
Members of the public that are shielding, have underlying health conditions, and are very young children are all more vulnerable to higher temperatures.
“Most of us look forward to the warmer weather but some people may find it more difficult to cope with these higher temperatures,” said Emer O’Connell, Consultant in Public Health at PHE. “Older people, those with underlying health conditions and very young children are more at risk in hot weather.
“This summer, many of us are spending more time at home due to COVID-19, especially those who are shielding as they are at high risk of developing severe infection.
“It is important that we continue to check up on older people, and those with underlying health conditions, particularly if they are living alone and may be socially isolated as we know that a lot of homes can overheat.
“You will need to do things differently this year, for example keeping in touch by phone. If you need to provide direct care to someone at risk from hot weather, follow government guidance on how to do this safely. The most important advice is to ensure they stay hydrated, keep cool and know how to keep their homes cool.”
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PHE also issued seven steps to staying healthy during exceptionally warm weather.
It’s crucial that everyone drinks plenty of fluids while avoiding excess alcohol, it said.
Opening windows and shading windows that are exposed to direct sunlight should keep you warm while indoors.
You should also avoid doing any strenuous activities during the heat of the day, between 11am and 3pm.
Meanwhile, eating smaller meals, more often, could help to keep you from overheating.
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Government’s seven-step plan to keeping healthy in a heatwave
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
Everyone is at risk of dehydration in hot temperatures, but babies, children and older people are particularly vulnerable.
Stay cool indoors
Open windows when the air feels cooler outside than inside; shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight; move to a cooler part of the house, especially for sleeping.
Slow down when it is hot
Exertion heats up our bodies so plan any strenuous activities (e.g. exercise, gardening) outside the hottest time of the day, typically 11am – 3pm.
Cool your skin with water
You could use a cool wet sponge or flannel, cool water spray, cold packs around the neck and armpits, or a cool, wet sheet.
Stay connected and listen to the weather forecast
Knowing the forecast can help you plan ahead and adapt what you’re doing.
Dress appropriately for the weather
Protect yourself against the sun’s radiation and keep yourself cool by wearing thin cotton clothes.
Eat smaller meals, more often
Cold salads and fruit are the perfect summer foods.
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After a week of dull and grey weather, there are fears that many people will be tempted to meet in large gatherings to enjoy the hot temperatures.
But, PHE urged everyone to remain vigilant during the coronavirus outbreak.
While the government yesterday advised that some lockdown measures will be lifted on July 4, there is still a high risk of COVID-19 infection to the public.
You could lower your risk of infection by remaining indoors, unless absolutely necessary.
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