Public Health Wales shares tips for staying safe in heat

It is about to get very warm across the region <i>(Image: Getty Images)</i>
It is about to get very warm across the region (Image: Getty Images)
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People across Wales are being urged to check in on each other as the country faces a period of extreme heat.

Public Health Wales is warning that the hot weather poses a risk to everyone, but especially to older people, babies, and very young children who can deteriorate quickly.

Professor Sarah Jones, Consultant in Environmental Public Health for Public Health Wales, said: "We need to adapt the way that we live during spells of extreme heat to make sure we keep everyone well.

"Taking just a few minutes to check in on family, friends, and neighbours could be lifesaving.

"A knock at the door, a phone call, or a simple text message can make a critical difference to someone who is struggling in the heat and may not be able to ask for help themselves."

Public Health Wales is advising people to stay cool by staying in the shade, drinking plenty of water, and keeping indoor spaces cool.

It recommends closing curtains, blinds, and windows during the day to keep heat out, and reopening them in the evening when temperatures drop.

People are also advised to use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and at least four-star UVA protection.

The warning comes as Wales faces a period of extreme heat, raising concerns about heat-related illness.

Heat-related illness can affect anyone, regardless of age or health, but young children are particularly at risk because they struggle to regulate their body temperature.

Parents and carers are advised not to cover prams or buggies with blankets or cloths, as this can trap heat.

Lightweight bedding and keeping rooms as cool as possible are recommended, and downstairs rooms may be cooler for sleeping.

Public Health Wales is also reminding people to look out for signs of heat exhaustion.

If someone feels unwell, they should move to a cool place, rest, and drink water.

If symptoms worsen and heatstroke is suspected, this is a medical emergency.

Information on recognising heat exhaustion and heatstroke is available on the NHS Wales website.

The advice also applies to daily routines.

People are encouraged to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day and to carry out errands, exercise, or walk the dog in the early morning or late evening when it is cooler.

Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and loose-fitting clothing is recommended for those who must go outside.

Public Health Wales has also warned of the dangers of swimming in open water.

It may be tempting to cool off in lakes or rivers, but cold-water shock is a real danger.

People are advised to enter water slowly to reduce the risk of cold-water shock and are reminded never to swim in reservoirs.

The #FloatToLive message is also being promoted for anyone who gets into difficulty in the water.

If someone starts to feel unwell in the heat, they should tell someone, move to a cooler area, and sip cold water.

Sugary, alcoholic, hot, or caffeinated drinks should be avoided.

NHS 111 can be contacted for advice, or 999 in an emergency.

More advice and information on staying safe is available in the Public Health Wales guide to hot weather.

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