Residents across Warwickshire are being urged to take extra care as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office have issued a Red Heat Health Alert for the West Midlands. 

The alert is in place from 9am on 24 June until 9pm on 25 June, indicating that extreme heat is expected to have a significant impact on health and wellbeing across the region. 

While the warm weather may be welcome, prolonged high temperatures can pose serious risks that can affect everyone, not just those who are usually more vulnerable (i.e. older people, young children, and those with underlying health conditions). Everyone is encouraged to take simple steps to protect themselves and to check in on others. 

During the hot weather, it is important to: 

• Drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, throughout the day 

• Avoid drinking too much alcohol, caffeine, or sugary drinks as they can make you more dehydrated 

• Look out for warning signs of heat stroke which includes a headache and disorientation 

• Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day (11am to 3pm) 

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and apply sunscreen when going outside 

If you're at home  

• Keep your living space cool by closing curtains or blinds on windows that face the sun 

• Open windows when temperatures drop, especially overnight 

• Use fans where possible, ensuring rooms are well ventilated 

Hot weather can affect people in different ways, so checking-in on others is especially important. A simple phone call or visit can help ensure that older neighbours or relatives, babies and young children, and those with long-term health conditions are coping in the heat, staying hydrated and keeping cool. 

For more information on staying safe in hot weather: 

• Preparing for a heatwave: advice from Warwickshire Resilience Forum 

• Community Fire Safety: advice from Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service 

• NHS - Dehydration: guidance on recognising symptoms and when to get help 

• NHS - Heatwave: how to cope: advice for families, young children, and older people 

• GOV.UK - Beat the Heat: practical tips for staying safe during hot weather 

• Actions?to take to prepare for a power cut: you can report a power cut by calling 105 

By taking simple precautions and looking out for one another, Warwickshire communities can stay safe and well during this period of extreme heat.