Look out for each other during heat waves

Look out for each other during heat waves

With another weather warning being put in place for extreme heat over the coming days, we wanted to provide you with an update about how you can support others in the community.

Some of the top ways to stay safe during hot weather include the following.

* Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated, such as older people living alone and those with underlying conditions who are particularly at risk

* Stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun, remembering it may be cooler outdoors than indoors

* Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol

* Try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 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

* Check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly

* Check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging

* Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals

* Take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down

High temperatures also present a risk of wildfires, especially after long dry periods.
People with pre-existing heart and lung conditions, such as asthma, are most susceptible as breathing wildfire smoke may worsen their symptoms.
Children and older people may also be susceptible to health impacts.

If wildfire smoke affects your area, avoid or reduce your exposure to smoke by staying indoors with the doors and windows closed.

Where possible, avoid smoky areas and, if you should travel through a smoky area, make sure the vehicle windows are closed and the air conditioning is switched to recycle or recirculate if possible.

The UK Health Security Agency has produced a one-page information leaflet about how to beat the heat, focusing on keeping in touch, keeping well, finding somewhere cool and watching out.

* More information about beating the heat on the Government website  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/heatwave-plan-for-england/beat-the-heat-staying-safe-in-hot-weather 

As it's currently the summer holidays, many children and young plan will be out and about in the community and their susceptibility to high temperatures varies.
Those under four years of age, who are overweight or taking certain medication may be at increased risk of adverse effects.

* Advice for teacher or professionals working with children and young people  https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/heatwave-plan-for-england/looking-after-children-and-those-in-early-years-settings-during-heatwaves-for-teachers-and-professionals

The British Red Cross also has a range of information on its website, including advice translated in a number of different languages.

* Access information on the British Red Cross website  https://www.redcross.org.uk/get-help/prepare-for-emergencies/heatwaves-uk

Many of you will be supporting people in the local community so it's important we share this advice as widely as possible so everyone knows how to stay safe during the heat wave.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we've seen the importance of communities coming together and how being a good neighbour can make a real difference to others, particularly for those who might be vulnerable or living alone.

Check in on others in your neighbourhood and see whether they have everything they need to cope during the heat wave. A knock on their door could be all it takes to help them get some extra support they may need.

Please keep an eye on Council, Cheshire West Voluntary Action (CWVA) and other partner communication channels for the latest information and advice.

Joanne Stanton
Senior Development Officer

Cheshire West Voluntary Action  https://chesterva.org.uk/