HEALTH and ambulance bosses are urging the public to look after themselves and their loved ones as the hot and humid weather looks set to continue for a few days yet.

It comes after call numbers to West Midlands Ambulance Service for those suffering from heat related issues rose significantly in the last few days.

The heat is particularly affecting older people (especially those over 75); babies and young children, people with a serious chronic condition; especially heart or breathing problems; and people with mobility problems such as people with Parkinson's disease or who have had a stroke.

Assistant chief ambulance officer, Michelle Brotherton, said: “We are seeing lots of cases of patients becoming dehydrated after not having drunk enough water.

"There are also case of people who are simply overheating which is a particular problem if the individual already has problems with their heart or breathing.

"Particularly over the weekend we also saw cases of heat exhaustion and heatstroke for people who were out in the sun for many hours who had not taken precautions.

“Thank you to our staff who are working incredibly hard to deal with the increased demand whilst also having to cope themselves in the high temperatures.

“There is no doubt many of those emergencies could have been avoided if people had taken precautions.

"We would therefore urge the public to look out for their loved ones, but also elderly neighbours who might be finding the current weather tough to deal with.”

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Meanwhile, Rachel McColm, emergency department consultant, said: "It’s nice that the sun is shining and we can all enjoy a taste of summer – but it’s important to remember that rising heat does bring health risks for some.

“We recommend that people keep an eye on the weather forecast for the coming days and if it gets hotter, consider avoiding the sun between 11am and 3pm, drink plenty of fluids and keep an eye out for children and older people.

“It’s important to make the most of the good weather but equally important that people don’t get too much sun or heat and make themselves ill.

“Sunscreen is vital – but it’s also important to make sure that this is reapplied regularly to ensure its effectiveness, particularly with children and those who may be in and out of water."

Tips to stay well during the heatwave include:

• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and diluted fruit juice. Avoid excess alcohol, caffeine (tea, coffee and cola) or drinks high in sugar.

• Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat and sunglasses if you go outdoors.

• Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.

Top advice for being sun safe if outdoors for more than 20 minutes between 11am-3pm:

  • Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection and a wide brimmed hat.
  • Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. This should minimise the risk of sunburn
  • Seek shade