Weston Area Health NHS Trust would like to encourage people of all ages to be active and make the most of being outdoors, but would like you to consider the risks in the heatwaves. With current temperatures set to rise over the following month we advise the following:
Stay out the heat:
• keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
• if you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat
• avoid extreme physical exertion
• wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes
Cool yourself down:
• have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
• eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content
• take a cool shower, bath or body wash
• sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck
Keep your environment cool:
• keeping your living space cool is especially important for infants, the elderly or those
with chronic health conditions or who can’t look after themselves
• place a thermometer in your main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the
temperature
• keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows
at night when the temperature has dropped
• close curtains that receive morning or afternoon sun, however, care should be taken
with metal blinds and dark curtains, as these can absorb heat – consider replacing or
putting reflective material in-between them and the window space
• turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment – they generate heat
• keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air
• if possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping
Following the advice above we ask that people get to know their NHS service options. Minor Injuries Units in Clevedon and Burnham-on-sea can treat sprains, strains, cuts, grazes, bites, minor burns, scalds, broken bones and minor head injuries and can usually see you much more quickly than A&E. Pharmacies are also an excellent resource to provide confidential and expert advice on a range of health issues.
Please remember that you can dial 111 or visit https://111.nhs.uk/ to get fast professional advice about the right service for you. This will help you get the treatment you need more quickly and ensure A&E departments are available to treat the most seriously ill and injured people this summer.