Sun and beach safety advice as Cornwall braces for 'hottest day' of the year so far
A 'Heat Health Alert' is out, with temperatures here expected to reach the high-20s
Last updated 17th Jun 2022
Cornwall looks set to sizzle on what is expected to be the UK's hottest day of the year so far.
The Met Office says temperatures in the Duchy could reach the high-20s, with highs of 30C expected in some parts of Devon.
The whole of the South West is under a Level Two 'Heat Health Alert', issued by the Met Office and UK Health Security Agency.
However parts of London and the South East are at amber, and could see the mercury peak at 34C!
The advice is to stay out of the sun during peak hours, wear sun cream and hats if you head outside and to keep hydrated.
Thursday was the warmest day of 2022 so far, with Friday 17th June expected to be hotter!
Dominic Mellon, Deputy Director at UK Health Security Agency South West, said: "Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense and we want everyone to enjoy the hot weather safely and be aware of good health advice for coping with warmer conditions as sunny spells can pose health risks for some people.
"During periods of hot weather, it is especially important to keep checking on those who are most vulnerable, such as older people and those with heart or lung conditions.
"Make sure to look out for signs of heat exhaustion such as feeling dizzy or weak with an intense thirst and a headache, and move to a cool place as soon as possible and follow our advice to beat the heat".
How can I stay safe in the heat?
The UK Health Security Agency says the top ways for staying safe are:
• 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
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• 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
• 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
The warm weather is expected to attract hundreds of people to Cornwall's beaches on Friday.
That has triggered a warning from the RNLI about the dangers of cold water shock.
Penwith lifeguard supervisor Tim Whitefield said: "We do have really, really hot days but our sea temperatures, at the very most, are going to be up in the 18s.
"Diving straight in is a massive shock to you, especially if you're really hot.
"If you do find yourself diving in and you suddenly become affected by the cold water shock, lie on your back and float and try and attract attention from the lifeguards".
Tim continued: "On those particularly hot, sunny days, make sure you're prepped with lots of sun cream, particularly for the kids, sun hats and long-sleeve t-shirts - and make sure you've got plenty of fluid; stay out of the midday sun as well.
"Should the unexpected happen as it does, the lifeguards are always going to be there to help out. That can be anything from heatstroke, sunstroke, heat exhaustion and any general advice if you feel unwell in the sun".
You can read more beach and sea safety advice on the RNLI website.