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neighbours during the current heatwave. The heatwave warning has now been raised to "level three" by the Met Office for the West Midlands.
Dr John Middleton, Sandwell’s director of public health, said: “For many of us, the warm weather is very welcome, with people enjoying the summer. “But people aren’t always aware of the risks, especially for the very young, older people and those with chronic illnesses who may be particularly vulnerable to the heat.
“The main risks the heatwave poses are dehydration, overheating, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. “Prolonged exposure to hot temperatures can lead to worsening of heart problems, respiratory difficulties and serious health problems, and can cause heatstroke, which is potentially fatal. “If you suspect someone has heatstroke, call 999 immediately. Heatstroke can result in irreversible damage to your body, including the brain, or death.” Dr Middleton added:
“We are supporting Public Health England with its heatwave plan – and looking to do all we can to help protect people from becoming ill because of the weather. “There are some simple tips to follow – most importantly staying as cool as you can and drinking plenty of cool drinks.” Sandwell Council took over responsibility for public health on 1 April this year under Government changes to the NHS.
Councillor Paul Moore, the council’s cabinet member for health and wellbeing, said: “We finally have some sunshine this year and we want everyone to have a great summer. “We would ask people to look out for anyone they know who may be more vulnerable to the heat, to make sure they are keeping cool, have what they need and are not falling ill because of the weather. “We would also urge people not to risk their lives by trying to cool off in Sandwell’s pools and canals – we have already seen tragedies in other parts of the country this year.” Council staff who support people in their own homes will be actively making sure vulnerable people are keeping cool and having plenty to drink.
The NHS has lots of tips for staying healthy during the summer at its website - www.nhs.uk/livewell/summerhealth Some key NHS advice for a “level three” heatwave include: During alert level three: Listen to alerts on the radio and TV about keeping cool. Avoid unnecessary travel. Visit or phone people who are vulnerable, such as older people living on their own or people with health conditions. Stay inside and in the coolest room in your home as much as possible and splash yourself with cool water.
Keep rooms cool by using shade or reflective material outside the glass, and if that's not possible, have light-coloured curtains and close them (metal blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter). Keep the windows closed while the room is cooler than it is outside, and, if it's safe, open the windows at night when the air is cooler than the room. Remember:
Enjoy the weather but try to stay cool. Avoid going outside between 11am and 3pm as this is the hottest part of the day. Spend time in the shade and avoid strenuous activity. Help others: check up on neighbours, relatives and friends who may be less able to look after themselves (for example, if they have mobility problems). It is more important to keep yourself and others cool if you or they have a heart or respiratory condition. If symptoms become worse, seek medical advice. Drink water or fruit juice regularly. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol, and if you do drink alcohol make sure you have water or other non-alcoholic drinks too.
For further information please contact: Sandwell Council Communications Unit 0121 569 3031 Out of hours/emergency: 07920 027 723 www.twitter.com/sandwellcouncil www.facebook.com/sandwellcouncil