As temperatures rise ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, health officials are urging residents across Lincolnshire to take extra care in the sun as a Yellow Heat Health Alert comes into force across the East Midlands.
The alert, issued for the region, will remain in place from 9am on Friday 22 May until 5pm on Wednesday 27 May, with warm conditions expected throughout the period.
NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board is reminding people that while hot weather can affect anyone, some groups are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses including heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Health officials are encouraging residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and wear suitable clothing including hats, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen.
People are advised to use a sunscreen with at least SPF30 and 5-star UVA protection, reapplying regularly throughout the day, particularly after swimming or exercise.
The NHS warns that the sun is typically strongest between 11am and 3pm, although harmful UV rays can still cause damage on cloudy days.
Those considered most at risk during periods of hot weather include elderly people, especially those aged over 75, individuals with long-term health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or kidney disease, young children and babies, and people who work outdoors or live in top-floor flats.
Residents are also being reminded to recognise the signs of heat exhaustion, which can include dizziness, headaches, excessive sweating, nausea, muscle cramps and extreme thirst.
If left untreated, heat exhaustion can develop into heatstroke — a potentially life-threatening condition where the body can no longer cool itself down.
Symptoms of heatstroke can include confusion, seizures, rapid breathing, a fast heartbeat and hot skin that is no longer sweating. Anyone suspected of suffering from heatstroke should be treated as a medical emergency and 999 should be called immediately.
To cool down safely, the NHS recommends moving into the shade or a cool room, drinking cold fluids, loosening clothing, and applying cool water or cold packs to the body.
Residents concerned about symptoms are advised to contact NHS 111, or dial 999 in an emergency.
Further advice on staying safe during hot weather can be found via the NHS and Choose Well Lincolnshire websites.
For sun safety advice visit:
NHS Sun Safety Advice
For heat exhaustion and heatstroke information visit:
NHS Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke Advice
Cover Photo: Bartosz Fedkowicz photographer
