As the summer heatwave rolls on, it's important to stay safe while enjoying the warm weather. It's easy for us Brits to get carried away when the sun shines and the temperature begins to rise into the 20s - and above.
We might want to soak up as much of the vitamin D as possible and make the most of the good weather by spending as much time outside as we can. But too much time in the sun at once, especially when we're not used to such hot conditions, can be dangerous - especially for children, the elderly or people with long-term health conditions.
The conditions have prompted the Met Office to issue an amber weather warning in England and Wales for Sunday (July 17), Monday (July 18) and Tuesday (July 19). The current heatwave, which is a result of hot air flowing to the UK from the continent, could be life-threatening for some.
The extreme weather can cause heat exhaustion, which, if left untreated, can turn into heatstroke - which needs to be treated as an emergency, according to the NHS. Protecting your skin from the sun's rays is a major step in looking after yourself during the heatwave and it's important to remember that even though you aren't abroad, the sun is just as strong.
Keeping hydrated is also vital, but what else can you do to prevent heatstroke and what are the key signs to look out for? The NHS says there's a 'high risk' of heat exhaustion or heatstroke during both hot weather and exercise.
So, it recommends avoiding 'extreme exercise' while the weather is hot, as well as keeping out of the sun between 11am and 3pm. Heatstroke can also be prevented by consuming plenty of cold drinks, taking cool baths or showers and wearing light-coloured, loose clothing.
Sprinkling water over your skin and clothes can also help to keep you cool. And, as tempting as it is to crack open a cold can of beer or cider while the sun's out, Brits are warned not to drink an excessive amount of alcohol, as it could lead to dehydration and ultimately contribute to heatstroke.
What are the signs of heatstroke?
According to the NHS, signs of heat exhaustion include:
- a headache
- dizziness and confusion
- loss of appetite and feeling sick
- excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
- cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
- fast breathing or pulse
- a high temperature of 38C or above
- being very thirsty
If someone is showing these symptoms, they need to be moved to a cool place, lie down and drink plenty of water. Their skin should be cooled with water or coldpacks. Make sure you stay with them until they are better. Move them to a cool place.
They should start to cool down and feel better within 30 minutes. However, 999 should be called if they show symptoms of a heatstroke, which include:
- feeling unwell after 30 minutes of resting in a cool place and drinking plenty of water
- not sweating even while feeling too hot
- a high temperature of 40C or above
- fast breathing or shortness of breath
- feeling confused
- a fit (seizure)
- loss of consciousness
- not responsive
If someone loses consciousness while you're waiting for help, put them in the recovery position.
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