TEMPERATURES on the Island are expected to peak today (Friday) at 26°C and remain very warm over the weekend. The Met Office has issued a level two heatwave warning.
Dr Jenifer Smith, director of Public Health and chief medical officer for the Isle of Wight said: "The experience across Northwest Europe in 2003, when 27,000 people died as a result of the heatwave, is a reminder heat can be fatal.
"It is not just children who need special attention, elderly people are also at risk."
Advice to Islanders is:
• If a heatwave is forecast, try to plan your day to stay out of the heat. If you can, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am – 3pm).
• Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothes, preferably cotton. If you will be outside for some time, take plenty of water with you.
• 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.
• Reduce heat from sunlight coming through the windows. External shading, such as shutters, is best.
• Keep windows closed while the room is cooler than it is outside. Open them when the temperature inside rises and at night for ventilation. If you are worried about security, at least open windows on the first floor and above.
• Take cool showers or baths.
• Drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty – water or fruit juice are best. Try to avoid alcohol, tea and coffee. They make dehydration worse.
Contact your doctor, a pharmacist or NHS Direct 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. Watch for cramp, feelings of mild confusion, weakness or problems sleeping.
For more information visit
www.nhs.uk and follow the link from the home page or visit the summer health pages at
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/Pages/Summerhealthhome.aspx
Reporter:
suep@iwcpmail.co.uk