Hot weather warning for St Albans

ST ALBANS residents have been warned to take precautions to keep themselves healthy and safe during hot weather this weekend.

The Met Office, in conjunction with Public Health England, has issued a level two heatwave warning for tomorrow (July 13) and Sunday. Temperatures are predicted to reach about 30 degrees in St Albans.

Level two means there is a 60 per cent risk of a heatwave in the next two-to-three days.

Cllr Teresa Heritage, Herts county council’s cabinet member for public health, said: “I’m sure that many of us are enjoying this warm, dry spell of weather but we need to be cautious to protect ourselves and our more vulnerable friends, family and neighbours from the sun and high temperatures and not underestimate the dangers of overheating.”

Residents are advised to follow a few simple precautions:

• Stay out of direct sun between 11am and 3pm

• Wear loose-fitting clothes and a hat; apply sunscreen and walk in the shade

• Have plenty of cold drinks and keep cool with cold showers or baths if necessary; eat cold foods and avoid extreme activity.

• Keep homes cool as best you can, such as by keeping curtains drawn on very hot days, and well ventilated.

• Remember some medicines need to be kept cool - check instructions on the packet.

• Babies, children and older people (and pets) should not be left in stationary cars.

• If you feel unusually unwell consult you doctor if symptoms such as headache, intense thirst, dizziness or muscular spasms persist.

Further information and advice can be obtained from a free telephone call to NHS 111 or online from NHS Choices at www.nhs.uk/summerhealth