NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group is encouraging people to follow their ‘top tips’ for staying safe in the heatwave to avoid feeling unwell.

The Yorkshire and Humber region is currently under an alert level with temperatures looking to increase throughout Tuesday 23^rd and Wednesday 24^th July. Some ways to reduce the health risks associated with a heatwave include:

1. Try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
2. If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat
3. Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle especially infants, young children or animals
4. Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains and opening windows at cooler times of the day
5. Avoid physical exertion
6. Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
7. Drink plenty of cold drinks

Nigel Wells, a GP and the CCG’s Clinical Chair said: “Look out for others, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, babies and those with serious illness as they’re more likely to be effected by the heat. If you see someone struggling, offer them water and help them into the shade.”

Too much time spent in the sun can cause heat exhaustion which is not usually serious if a person can cool down within 30 minutes. NHS England suggest ways to cool down include; taking a cold shower, cooling the skin with cold packs around the armpits and neck, drinking water, moving to a cool place and lying down with feet slightly raised. If you are concerned for yourself or someone else then call NHS 111 for advice.

It is expected that the high temperatures this week will break all-time records and that overnight temperatures will also be notably warm. Conditions are expected to feel more comfortable by the end of the week but people are encouraged to keep an eye on the weather forecast and prepare for the weather accordingly.

Information from health professionals on treating heat rash, sunburn and hay fever can be found here: https://www.valeofyorkccg.nhs.uk/summer/

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