Amber Heat-Health Alert warns residents to stay safe in the sun

An Amber Heat-Health Alert has been issued for Sussex and other regions, from 12pm on 27 June until 6pm on 1 July, so please take precautions and look out for others.

Hot weather can be difficult for people who are more vulnerable, such as older people and anyone with a serious or long-term illness.

Excessive heat and too much sun can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke and we all need to take precautions to enjoy the hot weather safely and help people who might be more vulnerable.

It’s important we all think about what we can do to protect ourselves from the heat and stay safe.

Look out for others

Please check on any friends, family or neighbours who may be more vulnerable to make sure they have the support they need to keep cool and stay safe.

• Contact friends, family or neighbours who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated and need help – older people, young children, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
• Children often don’t realise when they’ve had enough sun, so adults must think for them to keep them protected.

Stay hydrated

• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
• Take water out with you – use the drinking water fountains and bottle filling points available in the city.

Keep cool

• If you’re out and about, try to keep out of the sun and avoid physical exertion in the hottest part of the day.
• If you go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and loose-fitting clothing.

Keep homes and vehicles cool

• Close curtains on rooms that face the sun and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
• Check that fridges, freezers, and fans are working properly and make sure medicines can be stored according to the instructions.
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children, or animals.

Be careful in the sea

• Take care and follow our sea safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down.
• You should only swim in the lifeguarded areas between the red and yellow flags.
• The sea is still very cold, and the water can get deep quickly, always supervise your children at the water’s edge.
• Remember, it’s never safe to go into the sea when you’ve been drinking alcohol.

Stay safe

• Look out for signs of heat related illness. Cool your skin with water, slow down and drink water. Call NHS 111 if you need medical help or in an emergency dial 999.

More information

For more information to help you keep cool and stay safe during hot weather:

• Read UKHSA advice on how to beat the heat.
• Look at NHS information about heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and sunscreen and sun safety.
• Read advice from East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service on preventing fires and keeping your home safe in the hot weather.
• Read further information about skin cancer risks.