News July 2006

Heatwave Help and Advice

The Department of Health has issued a series of information leaflets to help raise awareness in general about the effects of hot weather on people’s health, those that might be most vulnerable, the warning signs to look out for and steps we can all take to prevent a possible heatwave becoming a problem. See the leaflets to download and links on the right. Some practical advice the leaflets offer is:

• Check the local weather forecast and, if a heatwave is forecast, try and plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat.
• If you can, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm).
• If you must go out, stay in the shade.  Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothes, preferably cotton.  If you will be outside or travelling on the London Underground for some time, take plenty of water with you.

Mostly it is a matter of common sense, but heatstroke can develop very suddenly so, if you suspect that you or someone else has heatstroke, call 999 immediately.  

• The symptoms of heat exhaustion include headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, pale skin, and a high temperature.  You should move somewhere cool and drink plenty of water or fruit juice.  If you can, take a lukewarm shower, or sponge yourself down with cold water.
• Heatstroke can develop if heat exhaustion is left untreated, but it can also occur suddenly and without warning.  Symptoms include; headaches, nausea, an intense thirst, sleepiness, and hot, red and dry skin, a sudden rise in temperature, confusion, aggression, convulsions and loss of consciousness.  Heatstroke can result in irreversible damage to your body, including the brain, or death.

Emergencies can happen and the Council meets regularly with its partners in the Emergency Services, the Homerton Hospital, Primary Care Trust, Health Protection Agency, voluntary sector and a whole host of other organisations, to discuss how we can work together to plan for, respond to and help the community to recover from, emergencies.  

We all have a part to play though if we are to enjoy the summer ahead so, if you would like any further information, please contact:

• Your local GP, pharmacy or Citizens Advice Bureau.
• NHS Direct on 0845 4647 or NHS Direct Online at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
• The Council’s Emergency Planning Service during office hours on 020 8356 2379.

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Page updated: 28 Feb 2007