By Press Release
The Met Office has issued an Amber Heat Health alert for the South East, including the Isle of Wight until 11pm on Wednesday 24 June.
During this time the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued a Red Heat-Health Alert for the South East, including the Island. The alert is in place between 1am Wednesday 24 June until 11pm Thursday 25 June.
Red alerts are classified as severe and pose a significant risk to life for all people.
Residents are being urged to take simple precautions to stay safe during the hot weather:
- Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm
- Walk in the shade, wear a hat and apply sunscreen
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day
- Drink plenty of cool fluids
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
- Take cool showers or baths
- Wear light, loose-fitting clothes
- Keep your home cool by closing curtains and sun-facing windows during the day
- Check on vulnerable neighbours, friends and relatives
- Store medicines below 25°C, or as advised
- Never leave children or pets in parked vehicles
Stay safe around water
While the hot weather may make open water look appealing, residents are reminded that entering cold water can be dangerous:
- Check the water conditions before you go
- Cold water shock can happen in seconds — enter slowly
- Avoid jumping into unknown water — hidden hazards can cause serious injury
- Keep children within arm’s reach at all times
- Don’t mix alcohol with swimming
- Stick to well populated beaches where possible
Take a phone in a waterproof pouch and in an emergency, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coastguard.
Visit WeatherReady – Met Office for more information on cold water shock, what it is and what to do.
Know the signs of heat-related illness
It’s important to recognise symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can become serious if not treated quickly.
Common symptoms of heat exhaustion for residents to look out for include:
- Feeling faint
- Headaches
- Heavy sweating
- Intense thirst
Heatstroke symptoms can be more severe, and include:
- Confusion
- Lack of co-ordination
- Fast heartbeat
- Hot skin that is not sweating
If you or someone else feels unwell follow these simple steps:
- Move to a cool place
- Drink fluids
- Seek medical advice via NHS 111
- Call 999 in an emergency
Kate Harvey, director of Public Health, said: “Hot weather can be enjoyable, but it can also pose serious health risks, particularly for vulnerable members of our community.
“We are urging residents to take simple steps to stay cool, hydrated and safe, and to check on friends, family and neighbours who may need extra support.”
Further information is available on the council’s website: Heat and sun – Isle of Wight Council