An amber warning for extreme heat affecting some areas of Cheshire and Merseyside has been issued by the Met Office.
From Thursday, August 11th to Sunday, August 14th, Cheshire East and West, Halton and Warrington are among the areas covered by the warning - meaning adverse health effects are likely to be experienced by those vulnerable to extreme heat.
NHS Cheshire and Merseyside is urging the public to stay safe and take precautions.
Children, older people and other vulnerable groups can easily fall victim to the sun’s heat and rays, and it is also important to be aware that higher temperatures can exacerbate the symptoms of long-term health conditions, such as respiratory and heart conditions.
As the warmer weather is set to continue for a few days NHS services in Cheshire and Merseyside are urging everyone to take particular care during the hot spell. People must be careful not to leave children or vulnerable people exposed to high temperatures or strong sunlight for prolonged periods of time, whether outside or inside a car.
Stocking up on sunblock (preferably sun factor 50), drinking plenty of fluids, walking in shade and avoiding excess alcohol are just a few tips for coping with hot weather.
Thousands of people each year are admitted to hospital because of heat-related ailments, including severe sunburn, heat exhaustion and sun and heat stroke.
Being out in the great outdoors at this time of year also presents a risk for those with allergies with an increase in the number of people being admitted to hospital due to the effects of pollen and from being stung by wasps, hornets and insects.
A few tips to protect yourself if you're at home:
If you're going on holiday or on a day out, make sure you're prepared especially in case of being stuck in extreme temperatures in a car or train:
For more information on how to cope in hot weather visit https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/