A warning has been issued to anyone heading to the beach this summer.
With temperatures rising in recent days, many people have been making use of the sunshine and heading to many of Merseyside's beauty spots. Whether a beachfront stay or woodland walk, there is no shortage of things to do in the region.
Over the weekend, a weather warning for heat was issued and parts of the UK were hit by sudden thunderstorms. But the warm weather is set to continue this week as the Met Office predicts highs of 29C on Tuesday.
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With the weather remaining warm through to the weekend, a warning has been issued to anyone heading to the beach. From 11am and 3pm, the sun is at its strongest, so people are encouraged to take more care.
Sefton Council said: "In the warmer weather, we remind people to take care when spending time along our coastline. It is an exposed landscape with little natural shade, and the sea breeze can disguise the hot sun’s UV rays.
"The NHS advises to spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest. In the UK, this is between 11am and 3pm from March to October."
The NHS also recommends people use at least factor 30 sunscreen. It is also advisable to cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses. More information about what sunscreen to use can be found here.
In its advice, Sefton Council also appeals to anyone who drives to the coast to park responsibly and considerately away from residential areas. A spokesperson said: "The dry weather also has an impact on sand conditions, making the sand very soft, which can impact vehicle access to our beach car parks at Ainsdale and Southport beach.
"While both Ainsdale and Southport beach car parks remain open, large heavy vehicles, such as horse boxes, will not be allowed on to avoid these vehicles becoming stuck in the soft sand. The dry, soft sand from a prolonged period of warm, dry weather can also reduce car parking capacity.
"Our Green Sefton team regularly monitor and assess sand conditions, and as a result, a reduction of beach car parking capacity can happen at short notice."
During busy days, vehicles can be seen queueing for a while as they wait for a parking space so people are being urged to plan ahead. Visitors can also park at the Southport Beach at Esplanade Park and Ride and hundreds of spaces are also available adjacent to the beach, on Marine Drive.
Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service is also urging people to remain vigilant in open water. The service wrote on social media: "There is evidence showing a link between warmer weather and increased number of accidental drownings."
The service urges people to call 999 in an emergency and ask for the fire service when inland and the coastguard if at the coast and to never enter the water yourself. They added the water can be cold, even on warm days, and to be aware of cold water shock.
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