Long periods of hot weather can pose serious health risks.
As the ground is extremely dry, there’s a serious risk of outdoor fires which could spread rapidly. Leicestershire Fire Service have asked that you please don’t have BBQs or bonfires as they can get out of control very easily.
Cooling off in water is very popular on hot days, but people are urged to take care around open water and keep an eye on small children around paddling pools.
Local water companies, Severn Trent and Anglian Water, have issued reminders to people to save water as demand for water is so high.
Staying safe
It is important we know how to protect ourselves and others in the heat. Hot weather can pose serious health risks. Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense.
The top ways for staying safe when the heat arrives are to:
- look out for others, especially older people, young children, and babies and those with underlying health conditions
- drink plenty of water; sugary, alcoholic, and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated
- close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- open windows when it feels cooler outside and it’s safe to do so
- never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, or animals
- 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
Government advice is that 999 services should be used in emergencies only. Seek advice from 111 if you need non-emergency health advice.
Find more information about the heat in Leicestershire and advice from our local emergency services.
Additional resources on looking after yourself and others
- NHS Choices - Dehydration helps you spot the signs and symptoms of dehydration and when to seek medical advice.
- NHS Choices - Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather provides useful information especially for young children and the elderly who are most at risk.
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Public Health England - Beat the heat: staying safe in the hot weather offers advice on looking after yourself and what to do if you or someone else becomes unwell due to the heat.