Shropshire residents urged to stay safe as UKHSA issue a red heat-health alert
Shropshire Council is encouraging residents to take simple steps to protect themselves, their families and neighbours during the period of extreme heat.
Latest update for Shropshire
Shropshire Council is urging people across the county to take extra care as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a red heat-health alert for the West Midlands, including Shropshire. The alert is in place from 1am on Wednesday 24 June until 11pm on Thursday 25 June.
A red heat-health alert means that very high temperatures could affect everyone, not only those who are usually more vulnerable. It may also place additional pressure on health and care services, transport, food and water supplies, energy, businesses and other local services.
The UKHSA has issued a red heat-health alert for Shropshire. The alert is in place from 1am on Wednesday 24 June until 11pm on Thursday 25 June.
Residents are advised to plan ahead, avoid the hottest parts of the day where possible, and check in on anyone who may need extra support, including older people, young children, people with long-term health conditions and those who live alone.
In particular, Shropshire Council is keen to stress the dangers of swimming in open water and the county’s rivers. Water temperature remains dangerously low, and heatwaves often result in tragic deaths from drowning.
Shropshire Council is continuing to share national guidance with local partners, health and care services and community organisations, and is reminding residents that small actions can make a big difference during periods of extreme heat.
People are encouraged to keep up to date with weather forecasts and to follow advice from UKHSA, the Met Office and the NHS.
Councillor Ruth Houghton, Portfolio Holder for Public Health, said:
“We are asking residents across Shropshire to take the red heat-health alert seriously and to do what they can to stay safe and well. Extreme heat can affect anyone, but it can be especially dangerous for older people, young children, people with existing health conditions and those who may find it harder to keep cool.
“Please drink plenty of water, keep out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, keep your home as cool as possible and check in on family, friends and neighbours who may need support. If you or someone else becomes unwell in the heat, seek advice from NHS 111 online or call 111. In an emergency, call 999.”
People can help reduce the risks by taking the following steps:
- keeping your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
- 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 avoid direct sunlight, especially between 11am and 3pm when UV levels are highest – if you do go outside, cover up with suitable clothing, such as an appropriate hat and sunglasses, and seek shade and apply sunscreen regularly
- 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
- if you are going to do a physical activity (for example, exercising or walking the dog), plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler, such as the morning or evening – also check weather forecasts to see when it will be cooler
More information about heat exhaustion and heatstroke, including what to do if you or someone else becomes unwell, is available from the NHS. Residents can also find seasonal health and safety advice on Shropshire Council’s Stay Safe and Well this Summer webpages.
Further advice and information
All the latest forecasts and advice from the Met Office: Weather and climate change – Met Office
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) exists to protect people from health threats, including from heat: UKHSA issues red heat-health alerts across England – GOV.UK
Advice from Shropshire Fire and Rescue about water safety: https://www.shropshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/water-safety/
More on water safety and actions to take to deal with cold water shock from the RNLI: RNLI Water Safety – The Dangers Of Cold Water Shock
Important health advice from West Midlands Ambulance Service: https://www.wmas.nhs.uk/get-involved/public-safety-advice/warm-weather-advice/
