Warnings for residents as temperatures soar

The Met Office is advising people to prepare for a ‘potential heatwave’, which could last from today (July 12), through to Sunday.

In the South the highest temperatures are expected on Saturday and Sunday, reaching in excess of 30 degrees.

Chichester District Council encouraged residents to keep an eye on neighbours and family members who could be vulnerable in extreme heat.

The South East Coast Ambulance Service senior operations manager, James Pavey said: “We know people are obviously going to be keen to get out and enjoy the sun while it’s with us but we’d ask them to be sensible, cover up, use sun cream, drink plenty of water and use their common sense.

“By following our advice and also taking extra care of vulnerable people including the very young and elderly, people can hopefully avoid the need of having to call 999.”

Cabinet member for community wellbeing at West Sussex County Council, Christine Field said: “While our summer has taken a while to get started, a heatwave is a serious issue.

“We have a relatively older population in West Sussex, and I would urge residents to not only look out for themselves, but also elderly neighbours. By following simple advice and easy tips, we can all avoid ill health this summer.”

The people most at risk are over 75s, babies and young children, those with a serious chronic condition, people with mobility problems, those with serious mental health problems and anyone on medication which affects temperature control.

Anyone worried about their health during hot weather should contact their doctor, pharmacist, call NHS 111 or visit the website at www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk.