Heatwave temperatures expected in Wiltshire
The Met Office has issued a level 2 Health Alert which means there is a 60% chance of heatwave temperatures being reached. This means there could be at least temperature of 30C in the daytime and 15C night time temperatures for two consecutive days and the intervening night) between Tuesday and Thursday.
You can take steps at home and at work to ensure you do not suffer adverse effects because of the hot weather. They include:
- Shutting windows and pulling down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it’s safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.
- Avoiding the heat: stay out of the sun and don’t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you’re vulnerable to the effects of heat.
- Keeping rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn’t possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
- Having cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
- Drinking cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
- Staying tuned to the weather forecast on the radio or TV, or on the Met Office website.
- Planning ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
- Identifying the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
- Wearing loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors.
If you have any vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours please make sure they are ok and have everything they need to cope with the heat. If someone feels unwell, get them somewhere cool to rest. Give them plenty of fluids to drink. People should seek medical help if symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, weakness, dizziness or cramps get worse or don’t go away
A plan is in place to ensure council staff who work with vulnerable people throughout the county to make them aware of the increased temperatures and what to do to mitigate any risk.
The increased temperatures may affect air quality. To find out about the quality of air in your local area please visit http://www.wiltshireairquality.org.uk/
Find out the air pollution for the next 5 days by Viewing the air pollution forecast for Wiltshire on the Defra UK-AIR website
To keep up to date on temperatures please visit www.metoffice.gov.uk
For further information and guidance please visit www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/Pages/Heatwave.aspx