Urgent safety advice as two heat health warnings come into force for Cornwall
Temperatures in areas like Bude could exceed 30C between Monday and Tuesday
Last updated 18th Jul 2022
"Enjoy the hot weather but stay safe" is the urgent message from the council's Public Health team, as the heatwave grips Cornwall.
The UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office have issued a 'Level 4 Heat Health Alert' for the whole of England, with temperatures in some areas of Cornwall set to exceed 30C. Parts of London and the South East could exceed 40C
The 'Red' alert is the highest level and means there is a 100% probability of Heat-Health Alert criteria being met between 0000 on Monday 18th July and 0000 on Wednesday 20th July in parts of England.
Alongside that, the Met Office has issued an amber weather warning for extreme heat for the Duchy and South West.
Forecasters say those vulnerable to the heat are likely to experience adverse health effects.
They also warn there is an increased chance of some heat-sensitive systems and equipment failing, possible delays to road, rail and air travel and an increased risk of water safety incidents as more people visit coastal areas, lakes and rivers.
You will find the latest information on the Met Office's Heat Health Alert website.
Rachel Wigglesworth, Director of Public Health for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, said: "Most of us enjoy the hot weather but it is important to keep yourself hydrated and to find shade where possible when UV rays are strongest, between 11am and 3pm.
"To avoid sunburn and heatstroke it is also a good idea to use factor 30 or higher sun cream and reapply regularly, especially if you have gone in the water. Remember too that a breeze might cool you down but it will not stop UV rays from burning you.
"If you have vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, make sure they are aware of how they can keep themselves protected from the worst of the heat".
How can I stay safe in the heat?
Cornwall Council's Public Health Team says has issued the following safety advice:
• 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
• 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
• 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
Information on the common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke can be found on the NHS website.
The UKHSA's Beat the Heat checklist identifies actions people can take to protect themselves during periods of hot weather.
Its COVID-19 and summer temperatures blog also has advice on staying well in hot weather.
Keep vulnerable people and children safe
People are urged to look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated, such as neighbours, friends and loved ones who may be more vulnerable in the hotter weather.
This could especially affect older people, those aged over 75 and people with long term health conditions. Make sure they are staying hydrated and following the tips for keeping cool.
Young children, the elderly and people with long-term health conditions are all at more of a risk of heatstroke, so please help them to stay safe too.
Water Safety
During warm weather, going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief.
If you are going into open water to cool-down, take care and follow local safety advice.
• While you might expect the water to be warm, it could still be cold, and that could mean you get Cold water shock. Low water temperature can numb limbs and render the strongest swimmer helpless in minutes. 2/3 of accidental drowning involve strong swimmers.
• Currents or water conditions – water does not need to be moving very fast to sweep you off your feet and there may be strong currents even in still water.
• Alcohol consumption – alcohol severely affects your hazard perception, co-ordination and resistance to the cold.
• Swimming Competency – don’t assume because you can swim in a pool that you can deal with the challenges and temperatures of open water swimming.
If you are heading to the beach, choose one patrolled by RNLI lifeguards and follow the flag system
Beach Barbecues
If you are planning a beach barbecue you should remember to dispose of it safely and take rubbish home with you.
Plastic bins and hot barbecues do not mix. If there isn’t a designated barbecue bin available, you should make sure your barbecue is cold and then take it home.
Never bury hot barbecues in the sand. It could cause serious injuries to others.
If you are staying in the garden for a BBQ, check the safety tips from Cornwall Fire & Rescue Service.
Keeping your home cool
Keeping your living space cool is especially important for those who need to stay at home while it is hot outside. Cornwall Council's Public Health Team has some tips to try to help you beat the heat indoors:
• Shade or cover windows exposed to direct sunlight and keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day. External shutters or shades, if you have them, are very effective, while internal blinds or curtains are less effective. Care should be taken with metal blinds and dark curtains, as these can absorb heat.
• If possible and safe, open windows at night if it feels cooler outside.
• Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment – they generate heat.
During the hottest periods, the advice is find the coolest part of the home or garden/outside or local green space to sit in. If going outdoors, use cool spaces considerately.