The whole of the south of England is now under a Level Three Heat Health warning as temperatures head towards 30c for the second day in a row.

A level three warning - which requires action from healthcare authorities - was issued for the South East, including Hampshire and the New Forest, yesterday.

The warning is triggered when forecasters think there is a 90% chance temperatures will reach 31C two days running.

Older people, babies and children, and people who do a lot of outdoor activity are considered particularly at risk in very hot weather.

A Times story this morning suggested 760 people across Britain have died because of the heat or related problems since the heatwave started six days ago. 

Officials say that although temperatures are no higher than those most of us go on holiday to enjoy, the warnings should be heeded because our activity level is different than it would be on a beach holiday.

Police and fire chiefs yesterday reiterated warnings about escaping the heat by swimming in open water after four people died in separate incidents on Tuesday.

Reports of dogs being left in cars with windows closed in the sweltering conditions have also prompted warnings from the police.

Emergency planning officer for Bournemouth and Christchurch hospitals, Troy Welch, said they were already taking action before the warning was issued and urged the public to follow suit.

“We are taking steps to safeguard our patients such as ensuring they eat foods with high water content like fruit and salads which can help to rehydrate the body.

“Other precautions include checking room temperatures, keeping windows and curtains closed during the day but opening them at night when air is cooler.”

He added that young children were also at risk.

“Giving them ice lollies or ice cubes with their drinks can help to increase their fluid intake. We would also urge people to keep drinks in their cars as there is more risk of traffic congestion in hot weather and also to use the air conditioning as research shows it has no more affect on fuel consumption than keeping the windows open.

“Other advice includes reducing alcohol consumption and watching out for neighbours and vulnerable relatives.

“We tend to be more vigilant during the winter months, but it is just as important to keep an eye on the elderly in hot weather too.”

Paul Compton, spokesman for Dorset's public health team said: “We are keeping a close eye on the situation - especially on Friday and Saturday which could be particularly hot.”

The NHS recommends staying out of the sun between 11.00am and 3.00pm, avoiding extreme physical exertion, wearing light, loose-fitting cotton clothes, and making sure you walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat.

For more advice, click below.

heatwaveadvice.pdf

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