People out and about in Staffordshire this week are being urged to take extra care this week, with amber heat alerts now in place across the county and red alerts in the surrounding areas.
This very hot weather is expected to continue until at least Thursday 25 June across the region, with a red alert coming into place from Wednesday and temperatures expected to reach 39°C.
Staffordshire County Council is urging residents to keep hydrated, stay in the shade, wear sun protection and look out for others – especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions.
The local authority is also renewing pleas for people not to bring barbecues to country parks because of the extremely heightened wildfire risks, or swim in open water without the proper safety measures and supervision in place.
While open water may look calm or inviting, it can be much colder than expected, even during hot weather. Entering the water suddenly can trigger cold water shock, which affects breathing and can quickly lead to panic or drowning. People are strongly advised never to dive or jump straight into reservoirs or lakes for this reason, and due to hidden hazards in the water that can cause injury.
Clear signs are in place at many locations, including at Chasewater Country Park where swimming is not allowed unless in a designated area.
Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“During warmer weather, it can be tempting to cool off by entering open water, but reservoirs and lakes can be extremely dangerous places to swim.
“Cold water shock, hidden hazards and sudden changes in depth can all have serious, even fatal consequences. Sadly, we’ve seen a number of tragic incidents in other parts of the country where people have lost their lives and we don’t want to see more sad news.
“I would urge everyone to follow the advice on site, never enter the water alone, and avoid alcohol before being near water. By taking simple precautions and looking out for one another, we can all enjoy the sunny weather safely.”
For anyone falling unexpectedly into the water, the key is not to panic. Safety advice is to extend your arms and legs and float on your back until the initial effects of cold-water shock pass, allowing you to regain control of your breathing.
Tips for keeping cool in the heat:
- Looking out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions.
- Closing curtains in rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler. Remember: it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
- Drinking plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated.
- Never leaving anyone in a closed and parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
- Keeping out of the sun between 11am and 3pm.
- Walking in the shade, applying sunscreen and wearing a hat if you must go outside in the heat.
- Putting your hand on the ground to check it is not too hot to walk your dog. If it is too hot for your hand, it will be too hot for their paws. Walk them in shaded areas and take water for them too.
- Avoiding physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
- Wearing light, loose fitting cotton clothes.
- Ensuring you take water with you if you are travelling.
