Croydon (Parliament Politics Magazine) – NHS and local agencies issue safety warnings as Croydon faces a heatwave with temperatures soaring to 32ºC, urging residents to take health precautions.
NHS London has released urgent health advice, advising people to exercise caution and make prudent use of NHS services in light of the amber warning over rising temperatures in the coming days.
Croydon might see temperatures as high as 32º over the next three or four days, according to weather predictions.
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol, or SWEP, was triggered last night by councils in London, including Croydon. Teams will be helping homeless people throughout this hot weather through Sunday.
In the meanwhile, Transport for London is requesting that all riders on its buses, trains, trams, and Tubes bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated while moving about the city.
Hot weather can cause some people to become unwell through overheating (becoming uncomfortably hot), dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
Dr Agatha Nortley-Meshe, the NHS’s medical director for primary care in London, said:
“We are expecting some very hot weather over the weekend, and I would like people to not only enjoy the sun but also be safe by taking precautions to keep well and avoid putting pressure on services.
We advise people to keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm. If you are going to do a physical activity, for example exercise or walking the dog, plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler such as the morning or evening.”
The risk of lung issues, heart attacks, strokes, and other illnesses can all be increased by hot weather.
Because their bodies are less able to control their temperature, older adults, infants, and young children are more likely to become ill during hot weather. Individuals with preexisting medical issues may also be more susceptible to the negative impacts of hot weather.
The pressure on NHS services, particularly A&E departments and the 111 phone line, is increased by hot weather. When seeking non-emergency medical advice, people should first call NHS 111 online.
NHS 111 online, which provides assistance for a variety of symptoms and medical concerns, is linked to the NHS App. The NHS website also offers health information and guidance, including assistance in locating a nearby pharmacy, dentist, and general practitioner.
Children under five cannot access NHS 111 online. The 111 phone line should be used by anyone seeking immediate medical assistance for children under five.
What are the precautions and key guidance provided?
Since the sun is at its hottest between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., residents are recommended to stay indoors during this time. It is best to schedule any necessary outdoor activities, such exercising or walking pets, for the cooler morning or evening hours.
Use sunscreen, minimize alcohol consumption, and drink lots of water. It is advised to wear a wide-brimmed hat and light, cool clothing. Whenever possible, walk in the shade.
To lower interior temperatures, draw the blinds or curtains in rooms that face the sun. Keep a close eye on interior conditions because it can occasionally be colder outside than inside.
To make sure they are handling the heat, check up on elderly individuals, those with underlying medical concerns, and anyone living alone. Children, the elderly, and pets should never be left in parked cars.