St Albans sun seekers are being warned to keep cool today during what is set to be the hottest day of the year.

St John Ambulance is urging people to look out for the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke as temperatures are expected to reach highs of 30 degrees Celsius.

Steve Hampson, St John Ambulance’s regional events manager in the east of England, said: “Extreme heat can be dangerous, particularly for the very young and old, but by being prepared you can spot the early warning signs and potentially be the difference between life and death in an emergency.

“Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most serious problems that can develop when the mercury soars so it’s essential that people can spot the signs, such as headache and dizziness, and get them somewhere cool and rehydrated as soon as possible.”

He added the most conditions they most often treat people for are cramp, fainting, sunburn and dehydration and advised those out in the sun to apply sun cream, cover up and stay hydrated.

But it’s not just friends and family in danger of suffering from the heat – pets are just as at risk according to the British Veterinary Association (BVA).

Vet Robin Hargreaves, president of the BVA, has some advice for owners as the weather gets warmer. He said: “As it gets hotter this summer, all owners need to think about taking simple steps to ensure their pets are happy and healthy during the warm weather.

“Most people know that dogs should never be left in cars by themselves, even when the day is warm as opposed to hot, but it can be tempting to ignore advice if you think you won’t be gone for long.

“Leaving the car windows open and a bowl of water is not enough. As a dog can only cool down through its tongue and paw pads, it cannot react quickly enough to cope with the rapidly rising heat inside a car.”

For more information on staying cool in the heat visit www.sja.org.uk or www.bva.co.uk