HEALTH WARNING: The Met office has issued a Level 2 Heatwave warning from tomorrow (Friday) and throughout the weekend until Sunday, indicating temperatures are expected to soar above 31 degrees.
The threshold temperature of 31 degrees Celsius during the day for at least two consecutive days and 16 degrees Celsius in the intervening night is expected to be exceeded, prompting the Isle of Wight Resilience Forum to issue a health warning to residents across the Island.
Dr Jenifer Smith, Director of Public Health for the Isle of Wight says:
“Although heat waves are uncommon in England, heat can be dangerous and people should be aware of the risks. In case of a heatwave, make sure you look after your own health and that of your family. It is not just children who need special attention; be aware that elderly people are also at risk, and make sure they are being checked on regularly and everyone drinks plenty of water.”
The advice to Islanders is to:
Keep out of the heat
If you can, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am – 3pm).
Stay cool
A loose, cotton, damp cloth or scarf on the back of the neck, or spraying or splashing your face and the back of your neck with cold water several times a day can help keep you cool.
Drink regularly
Drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty – water or fruit juice are best.
Seek advice if you have any concerns
Contact your doctor, a pharmacist or NHS 111 if you are worried about your health during a heatwave, especially if you are taking medication, if you feel unwell or have any unusual symptoms.
Organisations across the Island, particularly those involved in healthcare, residential care and nursing home care should consider implementing the following preparatory actions:
- Ensure that cool rooms are ready and consistently at 26ºC or below;
- Check that indoor thermometers are in place and recording sheets printed to measure temperature four times a day;
- Identify naturally cooler rooms that vulnerable patients can be moved to if necessary;
- Identify particularly vulnerable individuals (those with chronic/severe illness, on multiple medications, or who are bed bound) who may be prioritised for time in a cool room;
- Obtain supplies of ice/cool water;
- Ensure that staffing levels will be sufficient to cover the anticipated heatwave period;
- Repeat messages on risk and protective measures to staff; and
- Ensure that visits or phone calls are made to advise high risk individuals (those with severe mental illness, living on their own, or without regular contact with a carer).
