While most of us welcome the sunshine and warmer weather, hot weather can bring health problems that might affect you or your family.

To help you beat the heat and stay well this summer, please follow this advice from the UK Health Security Agency (UK HSA):

• Look out for vulnerable neighbours including older people and young children especially those who have an underlying health issue such as asthma or a heart condition.
• Drink plenty of fluid particularly water, aiming for at least two litres a day. Avoid alcohol, caffeine or hot drinks.
• Dress appropriately and cover up including wearing a hat and sunglasses.
• Avoid the heat as much as possible and limit going out during the hottest part of the day (11am – 3pm).
• Wear sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor of SP15.
• Follow the weather updates and advice on keeping well.
• Find ways to keep homes cool including closing windows that are exposed to the sun during the day, and opening windows at night when the temperature has dropped.

Heatwaves can cause other issues too such as travel disruption and power cuts, so please follow the below advice too:

• Be prepared for travel disruption and only travel if it is essential. Follow Essex Travel News (@Essex_Travel) / Twitter for updates. If you do need to travel, make sure you have plenty of water with you and perhaps a handheld fan.
• The heat may cause power cuts. In the event of a power cut, report it to UK Power Networks by calling 0800 31 63 105 or 105.
• Taking a dip in open waters and going swimming are great ways to cool down, but please be aware of the dangers of water. Never swim alone and never leave children unattended around water. For more advice visit: Summer Water Safety (essex-fire.gov.uk)
• You can also visit the NHS Mid and South Essex website for top tips and advice on how you can stay well, while enjoying the summer weather: Summer health advice – Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System (ics.nhs.uk)

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