Wokingham

With the hottest day of the year so far recorded this week, Wokingham District Council has set out common sense advice about how to protect elderly and vulnerable groups in the extreme heat.

The advice has been issued in response to soaring temperatures which could hit 39°C (102°F). The two most common forms of hyperthermia are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat stroke is especially dangerous and requires immediate medical attention. Key advice from the Department of Health aimed at preventing hyperthermia includes:

Helping others
• If anyone you know is likely to be at risk during a heatwave, help them get the advice and support they need. Older people living on their own should be visited daily to check they are Okay.

Keep out of the heat
• Try to plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat.
• If you can, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am – 3pm).
• If you must go out, stay in the shade. Wear a hat and light, loose-fitting clothes, preferably cotton. If you will be outside for some time, take plenty of water with you.

Stay cool
• Stay inside, in the coolest rooms in your home, as much as possible.
• Close the curtains in rooms that get a lot of sun.
• Keep windows closed while the room is cooler than it is outside. Open them when the temperature inside rises, and at night for ventilation. If you are worried about security, at least open windows on the first floor and above.
• Take cool showers or baths, and splash yourself several times a day with cold water, particularly your face and the back of your neck.

Drink regularly
• Drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty – water or fruit juice are best.
• Try to avoid alcohol, tea and coffee. They make dehydration worse.
• Eat as you normally would. Try to eat more cold food, particularly salads and fruit, which contain water.

Seek advice if you have any concerns
• Contact your doctor, a pharmacist or NHS Direct if you are worried about your health during a heatwave, especially if you are taking medication, or have any unusual symptoms.
• Watch for cramp in your arms, legs or stomach, feelings of mild confusion, weakness or problems sleeping.
• If you have these symptoms, rest for several hours, keep cool and drink water or fruit juice. Seek medical advice if they get worse or don’t go away.

Wokingham District Council’s champion for older people Cllr Bob Wyatt said: “Although it is nice to have some hot weather, it is very important for everyone to take care in extreme conditions. And we must all be very mindful of the extra strain on vulnerable groups such as older people. Hopefully by following these guidelines we can all enjoy the summer safely and help our older friends and relatives to stay cool.”

Wokingham District Council