NHS Surrey and Sussex shares heatwave advice as amber heat-health alerts issued
The NHS is reminding people in Surrey and Sussex of the steps they can take to stay safe while the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) have issued heat-health alerts for the region.
An amber heat-health alert is in place across Surrey and Sussex from 9am on Wednesday 29 July until 9am on Thursday 30 July. You can find the latest information and alerts on the Met Office website.
“Professor Andrew Rhodes, Joint Chief Medical Officer at NHS Surrey and Sussex, said:
““Hot weather can pose serious health risks, especially for older people, babies and young children, and those living with long-term health conditions. During periods of prolonged high temperatures, there can be an increase in heat-related illness and additional pressure on health and care services.
“We encourage everyone to take sensible precautions to stay well in the heat and to look out for people who may be more vulnerable. Simple measures such as drinking plenty of fluids, keeping cool indoors and avoiding the midday sun can make a real difference.”
UKHSA warns that significant impacts are likely across health and social care services due to the high temperatures, including:
- a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions. There may also be impacts on younger age groups
- likely increased demand on all health and social care services
- internal temperatures in care settings (hospitals and care homes) may exceed the recommended threshold for clinical risk assessment
- the heat affecting the ability of the workforce to deliver services
- indoor environments overheating increasing the risk to vulnerable people living independently in community and care settings
- issues managing medicines
- staffing issues due to external factors (for example, affecting transport)
- increased demand for power exceeding capacity
- other sector starting to observe impacts (for example, travel delays)
- water-related incidents may increase, including risks from cold-water shock and drowning
There are a number of ways you can help keep yourself and others safe during hot weather:
- keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- if you do go outside, wear suitable clothing, including a hat and sunglasses where appropriate, seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- avoid being in the sun during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- if you are planning physical activity, try to do it during cooler parts of the day, such as the morning or evening
- know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and what to do if you or someone else experiences them.
If people do feel unwell during the hot weather, the local NHS is here to help, with a range of services available, including:
- Pharmacies - a good first point of contact for health advice and over-the-counter medicines
- GP practices - if you need medical advice or think you may need to see a doctor
- NHS 111 online at www.111.nhs.uk, which can help direct you to the most appropriate service (for children under five years old, please call 111 instead)
- NHS 111 by phone, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, where trained advisers can help you get the care you need in the right place
- Walk-in centres and urgent treatment centres - visit www.nhs.uk for details
Remember that 999 and A&E services are for life-threatening emergencies. Always call 999 or attend A&E immediately if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life may be at risk.
More information about staying safe in hot weather is available online. Visit the UK Health Security Agency and NHS websites, including guidance on how to beat the heat and information about heat exhaustion and heatstroke.