‘Be aware of the heat danger’
PARAMEDICS ISSUE ADVICE
PEOPLE out enjoying the sunshine and warm weather are being urged to watch out for the signs of heatstroke.
With temperatures continuing to soar, paramedics say it is vital to spot the symptoms of heat exhaus- tion early and take action.
East Midlands Ambulance Service (Emas) has shared a list of the things to look out for, and what to do if anyone has problems.
Temperatures are expected to remain at about 23C today, but they begin shooting up over the weekend, with 26C predicted on Saturday, 29C on Sunday, 34C on Monday and 37C on Tuesday, before the weather breaks.
Rain is expected on Wednesday, though the temperature will still be in the mid-20s.
Emas is also warning the public that its staff are under extreme pressure at the moment, and urged people to only get in touch if really necessary.
“With temperatures soaring this week, we hope you’ll enjoy the sun safely but you should also know how to spot heat exhaustion and what to do if someone has it,” a service spokesman said.
Symptoms include: Headaches Dizziness/confusion
Loss of appetite Excessive sweating Cramps
Being very thirsty
High temperature
Fast breathing/pulse
Emas said that if anyone starts with any of these symptoms, or sees someone else struggling, they should act immediately, by “cooling the person down and getting them to drink plenty of water.”
Heatstroke is a condition caused by your body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to, or physical exertion in, high temperatures.
It is particularly dangerous for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing, and either very young or people over the age of 75, whose bodies cannot regulate temperature as efficiently as younger generations.
“If you are heading out of the house, it is worth checking the weather forecast and see just how warm it is going to be,” the spokesman said.
To maintain efficiency, Emas also asked the public to think before calling.
“Our call handlers, crews and volunteers are working tirelessly in the heat to help people with the greatest clinical need,” the spokesman added.
“Please help and only call 999 for serious and life-threatening emergencies.”
ON SIGNS OF HEATSTROKE