PEOPLE have been urged to “take action” if they see a homeless person in the extreme heat expected for the rest of the week.
The Met Office has extended its amber weather warning for extreme heat until Monday next week.
Although BCP Council has not activated its Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) to ensure homeless people could stay safe during the heatwave, local charity St Mungo’s has increased the number of shifts it will be carrying out day and night.
READ MORE: What Dorset’s weather experts are saying about heatwave
St Mungo’s will be handing out water and sun protection during the heatwave as well as helping people find places to shelter from the intense heat.
Petra Salva OBE, St Mungo’s director of rough sleepers, said: “Sleeping rough is dangerous at any time of the year – but in extreme temperatures that risk is hugely increased.
“The people we support often have existing health conditions which can be exacerbated by the heat, also they may have limited access to things most people take for granted such as fresh drinking water, sun screen or even places where they can get out of the sun – all of which can lead to serious medical problems.
“Our expert outreach teams are working tirelessly to make sure people are supported during this intense heat.
“This weather may be welcomed by many but for others it can be so dangerous, even life threatening.
“We urge members of the public to take action if they see someone who is homeless. It can be as simple as offering a drink or some sun protection.
"Anyone concerned about a person who is street homeless can contact StreetLink which is a national service which connects people sleeping rough to local support. And, as ever, if someone is in an emergency situation people should call 999.”
READ MORE: Heatwave: amber weather alert for BCP is extended
As reported, BCP Council said it will not be activating its SWEP.
A spokesperson said: "SWEP is activated only when there is a real risk of loss of life due to weather conditions."
Councillor Jane Kelly said: "To ensure that everyone has a great summer this year and in readiness for hot weather, we have heavily invested in operations across our coastline to ensure everyone, visitors and residents, get to enjoy our resort safely.
“As part of our campaign with City to Sea, we have provided 150 plus free drinking water sites along the seafront, to tackle plastic pollution.
"This extra water provision will be invaluable in helping keep people cool at the beach.
"The sites include 18 seafront kiosks, over 130 beachfront taps and 15 new ‘hydration stations.”
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