Council issues safety advice for upcoming scorching temperatures

The Met Office has issued a hot weather warning for the East of England between 12pm on Thursday, August 6 and 9am on Sunday, August 9.

Temperatures are predicted to be as high as 27C (80.6F) on Thursday afternoon before rising to between 29C (84.2F) and 31C (87.8F) at the same time on Friday.

Temperatures may cool slighly over the weekend but are still expected to reach 30C (86F).

The council has urged eledrly and vulnerable residents to take extra care during the hot temperatures.

Director of Public Health at Cambridgeshire County and Peterborough City Council, Dr Liz Robin, said: “Hot weather is enjoyable for most people though for some it is uncomfortable.

“Sadly experience tells us that exposure to excessive heat can have a serious effect upon your health.

“It is especially harmful for those with heart and lung problems as excessive heat can worsen their condition and may increase their risk of death.

“We’re asking people to look out for those at risk from high temperatures - the elderly, ill or the very young; to make sure they are able to keep cool.”

Dr Robin also reminded residents to stay safe from infection if going out to meet family and friends.

The council reiterated that the public should still stay 2m apart where possible, wash your hands regularly and wear face coverings over your nose and mouth in enclosed spaces.

Dr Robin saidthat those in the high risk categories for coronavirus such as the elderly or people with other medical conditions, are also those at an elevated risk from the heat.

More guidance on this can be found here.

Some of the steps you can take to keep yourselves and others cool are:

-Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions

-Shade or cover windows that are exposed to direct sunlight during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped.

-Drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated

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

-Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm

-Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat

-Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day

-Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes

-Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling

More information on these guidelines can be found at www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Summerhealth/Pages/Heatwave.aspx.

Council highway teams will also be on alert to grit the road with granite dust to protect them from the heat, should this be required.

The public has also been reminded to think of the dangers of swimming in open water. It could be deeper than expected, cold or may contain hidden rubbish or debris.

More information on this can be found https://www.cambsfire.gov.uk/community-safety/outdoor-safety/water-safety/.