Level 3 Heat-Health alert for the South East
UKHSA has issued a heat-health alert as the Met Office forecasts high temperatures for the coming days.
Both alert levels 2 and 3 are currently in place from 9am on Monday 11 July until 9am on Friday 15 July, with warm weather forecast across the country throughout the course of next week.
The top ways for staying safe when the heat arrives are to:
- look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
- stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol - stay hydrated!
- never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
- check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
- try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest
- walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat - wear light and loose clothing if you can
- avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
- make sure you take water with you if you are travelling
- take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down
- check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging
- Keep a check on the weather. The Met Office has up to date weather forecasts.
The NHS website has more tips on how to cope in hot weather.
You can see more advice on Healthy Surrey for tips on food and being Tick aware.
Keep away from Giant Hogweed
In the United Kingdom, the Giant Hogweed has become extremely invasive in suitable habitats, such as river and stream banks, railway lines, disused waste land and other damp places.
What happens if you touch it?
Giant Hogweed can pose a serious and significant risk to public health. The sap contains chemicals and toxins which, in the presence of sunlight, can cause a potentially dangerous skin reaction in those who come into contact with it. This can result in burning, itching and blistering. These lesions are slow to heal with the potential of serious scarring persisting for years. The toxins of the Giant Hogweed can be found in the leaves, stems, roots, flowers and seeds. These toxins can cause an acute reaction especially in children. Within 24-48 hours of contact, rashes, burns and blisters may start to appear as well as visible discolouration and dense pigmentation after 3-5 days. Seek medical advice, and do not expose the area to sunlight for a few days.
In the summer months, gardeners, children and those enjoying outdoor activities should be aware of the potential risk of Giant Hogweed. This plant can spread in sweltering heat of the summer months.
What to do?
If you come into contact with the Giant Hogweed, cover the affected area of skin immediately from sunlight. Then wash the skin with cold water as soon as possible and do not expose the area to sunlight for a few days. If contact is with the eyes or blisters occur or you feel unwell, seek medical advice immediately.
For more information: Giant Hogweed: The Facts - Woodland Trust and BSBI Maps
