Stay safe and cool during the hot weather
The Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB) is advising people to stay safe and cool as hot weather continues throughout the coming weeks.
While many people will be welcoming the hotter weather, it can come with health risks for older people and people with existing health conditions – such as breathing and heart problems.
Chief Medical Officer at Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board ICB, Joanne Medhurst, said: “The hot weather can be welcoming for many and I am sure people are looking forward to being outside. However, this week will see extreme hot weather which can have a negative impact on many people across our communities.
“It is very important that people continue to stay hydrated and look out for older members of our community, especially those who have asthma, heart failure, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s Disease, to name but a few conditions that could get worse during hot weather.
“Most importantly, we are advising everyone to stay hydrated. Have a bottle or glass of water near you to keep cool and hydrated throughout the day.
“Over the next week industrial action will also be taking place which may impact NHS services. Help us to help you by keeping safe in the hot weather this week to help ease pressures on our local services”.
NHS advice during hot weather includes:
- Staying in the shade between 11am and 3pm
- Wear light clothing and a hat
- Avoid alcohol and hot drinks
- Use sunscreen and reapply on a regular basis
- Close windows during the day and open them at night
- Regularly check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at risk live and sleep.
Anyone who may be feeling unwell due to the hot weather, or need urgent care, can seek advice by calling NHS 111 or use NHS 111 online.
More information about sun safety and keeping cool in hot weather can be found on the NHS England website.
Stay up to date with the weather and UV forecast by following the Met Office Twitter account.