Staffordshire residents are being advised to stay safe in the heat and check on elderly relatives and neighbours, as high temperatures are set to last for the next few days.
An Amber weather alert for ‘extreme heat’ is currently in place across the whole of Staffordshire, and temperatures are expected to reach 39C in some areas of the county by Thursday.
The Met Office has raised the alert to Red for ‘extreme heat’ covering other parts West Midlands, meaning a risk to life, power systems and transport.
Older people, especially those aged 65 and over, people who have long-term serious health conditions, and those who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves are especially vulnerable to high heat.
Martin Rogerson, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Care, has urged people to check on the welfare of elderly relatives, friends and neighbours during the heatwave.
Martin said:
“A heatwave can affect anyone, but we know that there are some people who are more vulnerable to high temperatures than others.
“We’re advising people to check on elderly relatives and neighbours, or those with an underlying health condition. People on multiple medicines, or medicines that might make them more likely to be badly affected by hot weather, might need looking after too. Also, check medications – some medicines require a temperature of 25C or below, so might need storing in the fridge temporarily.”
The county council has also sent information out to its social care staff, and care homes to explain the importance of ‘beating the heat’ and raising awareness of the signs of heat illness and prevention.
Martin continued:
“We’ve been advising all our adult social care staff and care providers about how they can monitor heat health, and spot the early signs of heat illness in residents, as well as providing tips on how to keep cool. This way, we can all be alert to the signs of heat illness, and keep everyone safe.”
More information on how to beat the heat can be found on the government's website.
