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Taking sensible precautions in the warmer weather

15 Jun 2022, 5:34 p.m.

For most of us, the sunshine, dry weather and warmer temperatures are very welcome, but Buckinghamshire Council’s Public Health team is putting out a few reminders about some of the health risks during periods of hotter weather.

Buckinghamshire is due to experience a period of hot weather in the second half of this week with temperatures expected to reach up to 33c on Friday.

Please bear in mind the following advice and information:

  • dehydration means your body loses more fluids than you take in. If it isn't treated it can get worse and become a serious problem. Babies, children and the elderly are more at risk of dehydration. Further information and advice for the public on dehydration can be found on the NHS website.
  • information and advice for the public on sun safety can be found on the NHS website.
  • sun safety information specifically for babies is also on the NHS website.
  • there are hundreds of festivals taking place throughout the summer, but large gatherings of people can also mean health risks. Festival Medical Services have put together information and advice for those attending festivals to stay safe.
  • open water swimming is growing in popularity but can increase the risk of gastrointestinal infections (diarrhoea and/or vomiting) as well as respiratory, skin, ear and eye infections. Advice can be found on the Government website.
  • If taking exercise outdoors think carefully about when to do it; try to exercise early or late to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

Buckinghamshire Council’s Deputy Cabinet Member for Public Health, Zahir Mohammed said:

“We know residents are alert to the obvious dangers of warm weather, from the risks of sun exposure to not leaving pets in hot cars. But it is worth us all keeping in mind the impact of the heat on health. Please don’t spend too long in the sun, avoid drinking too much alcohol in the heat and remember that young children and the elderly are most at risk of health complications caused by hot weather – it might be worth checking in with an elderly or vulnerable neighbour for example. Drink plenty of water, pace yourself and enjoy this spell of sunshine.”