Public Health Wales on how to stay safe in ‘risk to life’ heatwave
A red extreme heat alert is currently in effect for Wales, with temperatures expected to reach 40C and a “risk to life” warning issued by the Met Office. The Met Office reports that high humidity will accompany the heat, which may exacerbate health impacts and reduce the ability of individuals to recover during warm and humid nights.
Why is the extreme heat alert dangerous for physical activity?
Public Health Wales (PHW) has issued an “urgent call” for residents to prioritize safety as temperatures soar. While heat-related illness can affect anyone, experts at PHW state that babies, very young children, and older people face greater risks because they can deteriorate quickly in high temperatures.
Professor Sarah Jones, a consultant in environmental public health for PHW, says people must adapt their lifestyles during extreme heat to maintain wellness. She notes that checking on neighbors, friends, and family through a text, call, or visit could be lifesaving for those unable to ask for help.
How can people stay cool during the 40C heatwave?
PHW advises drinking plenty of water throughout the day and keeping buildings cool by closing windows, blinds, and curtains during daylight hours. These should be opened again in the evening to ventilate the space.
For parents of babies and toddlers, who cannot regulate body temperature effectively, PHW suggests using lightweight bedding and keeping rooms cool. Parents are specifically advised against covering prams or buggies with cloths or blankets, as this can trap heat.
What are the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke?
Heat exhaustion symptoms include feeling sick, excessive sweating, and cramps in the stomach, legs, or arms. According to PHW, skin may become pale and clammy, though they note that changes in skin color are harder to detect on brown and black skin.
NHS Wales outlines four steps for treating heat exhaustion: move the person to a cool place, remove unnecessary clothing like socks or jackets, provide cool water or a rehydration drink, and cool the skin. This can be done via fans, spraying cool water, or placing cloth-wrapped cold packs under the armpits or on the neck.
What happens if symptoms worsen?
If a person remains unwell after 30 minutes of treatment, NHS guidelines state you should call 999. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and may be indicated by confusion, lack of coordination, fast breathing, or shortness of breath.
Another sign of heatstroke is hot skin that is not sweating and may appear red, although NHS guidelines clarify this is also harder to see on brown and black skin. PHW recommends sipping cold water and avoiding caffeinated, alcoholic, hot, or sugary drinks.
What are the risks of cooling off in open water?
While lakes and rivers may seem tempting for cooling down, PHW warns that cold-water shock is a real danger. To reduce this risk, the public body advises entering open water slowly rather than jumping in.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum expected temperature in Wales?
Temperatures are expected to soar up to 40C.
How should parents manage baby strollers in the heat?
Parents should avoid covering prams or buggies with blankets or cloths to prevent trapping heat.
When should someone call 999 during a heatwave?
According to NHS guidelines, you should call 999 if someone remains unwell after 30 minutes of treatment or exhibits heatstroke symptoms like confusion and lack of coordination.
How are you planning to keep your community safe during this heatwave?