Help us to help you by staying safe in hot weather
10/08/2022
This article is more than one year old.
People in Oxfordshire are urged to take care as temperatures increase again across the UK following a heatwave a few weeks ago.
The main risks posed by hot weather are:
- Dehydration from not drinking enough water
- Overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing or long-term health conditions
- Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
In some cases these conditions can make people very unwell, and sometimes lead to admissions to hospital.
Lily O'Connor, Director of Urgent Care for Oxfordshire, said: "Taking a few simple steps can make a big difference to your health in hot weather.
"Please take care and keep an eye out for elderly or more vulnerable relatives and friends. People are often more comfortable at home than in hospital, and we want to avoid preventable trips to hospital wherever we can.
"It is important that people think about the activities they are carrying out – if they're not essential, think about postponing to cooler times of day where possible."
Dr Ed Capo-Bianco, GP in South Oxfordshire and Clinical Lead for Urgent Care In Oxfordshire, said: "While the good weather might be welcome to some, it can also come with significant health risks particularly for the elderly, the very young, and people with long term health conditions, like diabetes, COPD, or heart failure.
"It is really important for people of all ages to make sure that they stay well and safe by drinking lots more water than usual to stay well hydrated. It is also advisable to stay out of the direct sun between the hours of 11am and 3pm and avoiding any extreme exercise or exertion during these times. If you do start to feel unwell or poorly, then contact NHS 111 in the first instance."
If you need medical help that is not life-threatening, visit NHS 111 online which will give you advice and point you to the best service for your needs.