Heat health alert for Devon

Cool it!

The south west is under a level-2 heat alert as temperatures are set to soar to the late 20s.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) South West has issued the alert which will be in force through Friday and Saturday.

The alert, which comes into place at midnight on Thursday 16 June until midnight on Saturday 18 June.

Steve Brown, Devon's public health director says the UK around 2,000 people in the UK die every year because of heat and is urging people to check on those who are vulnerable.

He's advising people to stay indoors between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. when the sun is strongest, to keep hydrated and use a high-factor sun blocker.

Dominic Mellon, deputy director at UK Health Security Agency South West, said: “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.”

The top ways for staying safe when the heat arrives are to:

• 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 adviceif you are going into the water to cool down