Community nurses issue heat wave warning

Written By: Mark Armstrong

Provided By: Liverpool Community Health

As the temperatures soar, Liverpool Community Health (LCH) NHS Trust is urging Merseyside residents to be prepared for a heatwave.

The LCH Community Nurses who work across the city want to make sure the hot weather conditions don't leave a sting in the tail for young children, older people, and those with long-term health conditions as the temperatures start to rise.

With temperatures hotter than parts of Europe, and predictions that it this summer will be the hottest for a decade, nurses are warning residents to keep an eye on vulnerable friends and neighbours during the extreme heat.

Denise Critchley, Community Matron at Picton Neighbourhood, commented: "Often the focus is cold weather but extreme heat can be dangerous, particularly for the very young and old, but by being prepared you can spot the early warning signs and potentially be the difference between life and death in an emergency.

"Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most serious problems that can develop when the temperatures rise so it’s essential that people can spot the signs, such as headache and dizziness, and get them somewhere cool and rehydrated as soon as possible."

Liverpool Community Health is offering some top tips to keep you healthy during the hot weather:

The following advice applies to everybody when it comes to keeping cool and comfortable and reducing health risks:

• Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it's safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.

• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don't go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you're vulnerable to the effects of heat.

• Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).

• Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.

• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.

• Stay tuned to the weather forecast on the radio or TV, or on the Met Office website.

• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.

• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.

• Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors.

• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

For more information on sun safety, visit the PHE Sun Sense webpage or http://sunsmart.org.uk/UV-the-sun-and-skin-cancer/how-to-enjoy-the-sun-safely/.