Stay safe in the sun this half term as heat health alert continues in Surrey and Sussex
With an ongoing Heat Health Alert in place, the NHS is reminding people to take extra care during the hot weather, especially as families head outdoors over half term. Temperatures are expected to remain high, increasing the risk of dehydration, sunburn, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Families enjoying parks, beaches and outdoor activities are being encouraged to stay safe in the sun by drinking plenty of water, seeking shade during the hottest part of the day between 11am and 3pm, and wearing hats, sunglasses and loose-fitting clothing. Parents are also advised to apply sun cream with at least SPF30 regularly throughout the day, particularly for young children.
The NHS is also urging people to check in on older relatives, neighbours and anyone else who may be more vulnerable to the heat, including babies and those with long-term health conditions.
Residents and visitors are encouraged to choose the right NHS service if they become unwell over the half term period. For urgent health advice that is not life-threatening, people should use NHS 111 online, local pharmacies, Urgent Treatment Centres or Minor Injury Units where appropriate. Pharmacies can also provide advice and treatment for common summer conditions including sunburn, hay fever, insect bites and heat rash.
Visit NHS 111 online for advice on where to get help.
Emergency Departments and 999 services should only be used for serious or life-threatening emergencies, helping ensure care is available for those who need it most during a busy period for local NHS services.