AS READING prepares for three days of extreme weather, the council has issued some guidance to help residents during this period.
It comes as the Met Office raised its weather warning to red as temperatures on Monday and Tuesday are forecast to reach up to 40ºC, the hottest since records began.
Council leader Cllr Jason Brock emailed residents asking them to look out for others as anyone can be affected by the heat, especially if they have underlying health conditions.
Among the tips shared by the council, he noted:
- Stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- 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, when the UV rays are strongest
- Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
- Use high factor 30-50 SPF with a high star UVA rating, apply sun cream 20 mins before going out and every 2 hours in the sun and make sure your sun cream is in date, if it has been open for more than 12 months it may not be as effective
- Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
- Make sure you take water to drink with you
- Look out for people who may need support in your community and check on older people or sick neighbours, family or friends every day during hot weather.
What to do if emergency treatment is needed
If you suspect someone has heatstroke, you can call 111 – or 999 if it is a life-threatening situation. Steps you can take include:
Taking the person’s temperature.
If possible, move them somewhere cooler.
Cool them down as quickly as possible by giving them a cool shower, sprinkling them with water or wrapping them in a damp sheet, and using a fan to create an air current.
Encouraging them to drink fluids if they are conscious.
More heat health information is available from the NHS.
“Stay cool if you can, and most importantly stay safe,” Cllr Brock wrote.
