RESIDENTS are being urged to stay safe in the sun with a heatwave expected to arrive in Worcestershire over the bank holiday weekend.
According to the Met Office, the mercury will soar to highs of 25°C tomorrow (Friday) and Saturday before rising to 28°C on Sunday and bank holiday Monday.
And, during the next four days and well into next week, which is half-term for a lot of schools and colleges across the country, the chance of rain is less than five per cent.
Because of the constant sunshine and high temperatures, the NHS has issued advice to help people stay safe in the sun.
Use sun cream – People should apply sun cream before they go out into the sun and reapply every two hours.
Wear suitable clothing – Those who are susceptible to sun burn should wear a hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeved top.
People should also reduce exposure to direct sunlight during certain times of the day – ideally between 11am and 3pm – as this is when the sun is at its strongest
Those wanting to keep their home as cool as possible should close windows and curtains during the day, when it is warm and open them during the night, when it is cooler.
Everyone should drink plenty of fluids and keep hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. Alcohol also dehydrates so anyone heading out or having a gathering at home should bear this in mind.
It is also important look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions, as they are at greater risk of further complications as the weather gets hotter.
Keeping pets safe
And people should look after their pets in a heatwave.
Dogs should never be left in hot cars and anyone who sees a dog in a hot car with the windows closed should call 999.
For the majority of the daytime hours, people should keep dogs indoors or wherever it is coolest. And, if walking them, do it at cooler times of the day – such as early in the morning and at late evening.
Take extra precautions for older dogs, those with thicker coats or flat faces, and those with existing health conditions.
Keep fresh, cool water available at all times.
For cats, put down a cool damp towel down in case they find it comfortable to rest on.
Put sun cream on ears and exposed areas.
Check small animals, poultry and other pets twice a day.
Keep guinea pigs cool and hydrated by making them a fresh vegetable treat.
Ensure rabbits and guinea pigs have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water at all times, and remember that as the sun moves during the day so too does the shade. Somewhere that was shaded in the morning could be in full sun by the afternoon.
Freeze a semi-full plastic bottle of water and wrap it in a towel so pets can lie against it.
Those with pet chickens can encourage them to stay in shaded areas by hanging up a homemade vegetable garland for chickens.
Keep fish tanks out of direct sunlight.
