With the temperature rising in Nottingham, Public Health officials at Nottingham City Council have issued advice on staying sun safe, and looking out for vulnerable people.
The Met Office has issued a Level 3 heatwave warning for the East Midlands over the next few days. During hot spells vulnerable groups, such as the older people, feel the acute effects of heat more than others and it’s long been recognised that death rates rise in the early stages of heatwaves.
Even if temperatures do not hit extreme levels, Public Health England (PHE) still advises people to keep safe in the sun, seek shade to cool down and keep hydrated with plenty of cool fluids.
Top advice for being sun safe:
• try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
• wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection, wear a hat and light scarf. Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. This should minimise the risk of sunburn.
• drink lots of cool drinks
• look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as the older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses
• never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• Remember that it can get uncomfortably hot indoors too. Try to keep your bedroom and living space cool, by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening your windows at cooler times of the day and overnight when you can.
• Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat.
Councillor Alex Norris, portfolio holder for health at Nottingham City Council said:
“Lots of people have been looking forward to the warmer weather, and will no doubt be enjoying the sunshine, but it is really important for people to stay safe when temperatures rise. In particular, we would also ask people to check on elderly or vulnerable friends, family or neighbours who may be struggling in the heat. Together people in Nottingham can help to look after each other and stay safe in the sun.”
Find out more about being sun safe and heatwave alerts:
• Cancer Research UK:
https://sunsmart.org.uk/UV-the-sun-and-skin-cancer/how-to-enjoy-the-sun-safely/
• NHS Choices:
https://www.nhs.uk/livewell/summerhealth/pages/heatwaveamberalert.aspx