People in the Black Country are being urged to take precautions as temperatures rise.
The Met Office, in conjunction with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has issued a level 3 heat alert as scorching temperatures are set to continue this week.
A level 3 alert means sustained daytime temperatures of at least 30 degrees Celsius are expected, with the elderly, people with underlying health conditions, babies and very young children at risk from the heat.
Over the next few days temperatures are expected to reach up to 35 degrees Celsius, with the level 3 alert in place until 9.00pm on Tuesday.
Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “Temperatures are currently at extreme levels across the Black Country, so we’re advising everyone to take all the necessary precautions.
“Avoid going out into the sun during the hottest times of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and keep your home as cool as possible. Shading windows and shutting them during the day may help and reopen them when it is cooler at night. If you do venture outside, make sure you wear a hat, apply plenty of sunscreen and stay in the shade.
“Stay as hydrated as possible and take water with you if you are travelling. Try to avoid drinking alcohol as you can get dehydrated much faster than you think. Wearing light and loose-fitting cotton clothes and having cool baths or showers will also help you keep cool in the heat.”
The main risks posed by prolonged hot weather are dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing.
Dr Dave added: “The heat can affect anyone but can have a severe impact on the elderly, those with underlying health conditions and young children.
“We can all do our bit by checking in on friends and family who may need extra support, as well as elderly neighbours who might be at greater risk of heat-related illness.”
If you, or others, start to feel unwell move out of the heat immediately and drink some water to rehydrate. If you feel dizzy, weak, or have a headache and intense thirst, visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for more advice.
For more advice on how to stay safe in the heatwave visit the NHS website here.
