Staying safe during this period of extreme hot weather conditions is really important. For the first time temperatures of 40C have been forecast in the UK and the Met Office has issued the first ever Red warning for exceptional heat.

An Amber extreme heat warning, has been in place for much of England for Sunday, Monday and Tuesday (17 – 19 July) since earlier this week. Today, the Met Office has issued a Red extreme heat national severe weather warning for parts of Lancashire that will cover Monday and Tuesday (18 and 19 July).

Heatwave What are the risks for Lancashire?

Lancashire is a fantastic place to be when the weather is warm. The county is blessed with huge stretches of coastline, rolling countryside and rivers, along with a wealth of attractions and open spaces to enjoy when the sun comes out. But enjoying the outdoors can pose a risk when temperatures soar and as climate change progresses, so the likelihood of experiencing very high summer temperatures across Lancashire increases. Whilst everyone looks forward to the sunshine after a cold, wet and windy Lancashire winter, high temperatures can be deadly for some. It is therefore vital to be well prepared and take care during hot weather.

How could this affect me? Potential impact and consequences

Extreme heat can be dangerous if you're elderly, very young or have an existing health problem. During a heatwave, where temperatures remain abnormally high for longer than a couple of days, the number of deaths and cases of serious illness rise. High temperatures can lead to respiratory problems, dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, often resulting in emergency medical treatment and hospitalisation. Travelling can be uncomfortable, particularly when vehicles are stationary and engines overheat, and roads and pathways may melt. Heatwaves can also lead to power cuts and water shortage.

Here are a few things you can do to help you stay safe during a heatwave:

• Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm.
• Apply sunscreen regularly and wear a hat when outdoors.
• Keep hydrated.
• Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
• Heat exhaustion is not usually serious if you can cool down within 30 minutes but if you suspect it has turned into heatstroke, call 999.
• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.
• If you go to open water to cool down, take care and follow local safety advice - Lancashire Constabulary - Staying safe near open water.
• There is an increased risk of wildfires during hot weather, so be sure to enjoy the outdoors safely.
• If you are travelling, make sure you take water with you.
• Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler.
• Open windows when the air feels cooler outside than inside, for example, at night. Try to get air flowing through your home if possible.
• Check storage instructions for any prescribed medicines you are taking and store in the fridge if necessary.
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children and animals.
• Follow instructions from the emergency services and local authorities and follow #lancsalert on social media

• Kind regards,

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service

Message Sent By

Richard Edney (Fire & Rescue , Communications Officer, Lancashire)