Stay safe during warm weather

The Bailiwick is again seeing very warm weather and we really hope that islanders take the chance to enjoy themselves after what has been a difficult start to the year.

However, Public Health it is always important to balance enjoyment with safety and I would therefore would like to remind everyone of the top ways for staying safe during the heat.

These are to:

• look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions;
• close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors;
• drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated;
• never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals;
• try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm;
• take care to protect against the sun if you are going into the water to cool down;
• walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
• wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
• make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling

Dr Nicola Brink, Director of Public Health also advised that the “over 65s, as well as young children and those with heart and lung conditions can all find normal activities a strain when temperatures get this high. I also urge people to take care to protect against the sun, taking sensible precautions such wearing a hat and applying sunscreen. It is also important to stay well hydrated.”

St John Ambulance Guernsey are experiencing a busy period at the moment and have also highlighted issues relating to the warm weather, particularly for people who have underlying health conditions and who live in properties with limited ventilation. In such cases, the advice to wear light clothing and to stay hydrated is particularly relevant.