The health body say one popular activity often enjoyed on a sunny day poses a serious risk during the upcoming heatwave
Public Health Wales has issued a warning to the public ahead of a heatwave set to hit Wales over the bank holiday weekend. Forecasters at the Met Office say “exceptional” temperatures are expected in the coming days, with highs above 30C possible.
It’s likely the May and spring UK temperature records will be broken during the “notable heatwave”. Many parts of Wales will be hotter than popular European holiday destinations in the coming days, including Mykonos, Ibiza and Marbella. You can see where the heatwave will hit in Wales on our forecast here.
Public Health Wales (PHW) has issued a warning ahead of the heatwave and said it is particularly concerned about the danger posed by one activity many people enjoy during warm spells.
There are fears that people could get into danger in water due to temperatures being well above average as while air temperatures may be very warm, the water is likely to remain cold due to the time of year. This poses a significant risk of cold water shock. Always keep on top of the latest Welsh news with our newsletter
According to the Met Office, cold water shock is a sudden and involuntary response that occurs when the body is unexpectedly immersed in water below 15C. It’s a physiological response that can affect anyone, regardless of age, fitness, or swimming ability, the weather agency say.
PHW is therefore encouraging people to be cautious even though open water may look inviting over the bank holiday and half-term week.
The health body is also reminding people to be careful in the sun – by wearing sunscreen, staying hydrated and taking advantage of spots in the shade.
The advice comes as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat health alert for parts of the England as temperatures are expected to soar over the bank holiday weekend.
The alerts, which mean significant impacts are likely across health and care services, cover the East Midlands, West Midlands, the east of England, London and the south east.
They are in place from 2pm on Friday until 5pm on Wednesday. According to the UKHSA website an amber heat health alert means there is likely to be “a rise in deaths, particularly among those aged 65 and over or with health conditions” and increased demand on all health and social care services.
Wales does not have a formal heat-health alert system equivalent to that used in England, with PHW issuing guidance when necessary instead.
Professor Sarah Jones, Consultant in Environmental Public Health for Public Health Wales, said: “While the current unusually warm and sunny weather in parts of Wales gives many people a much-needed boost to their mental wellbeing, it is important that we all look after each other and enjoy it safely.
“Hot weather is often more difficult for older people and babies, so look after your friends and check in on neighbours and family members to make sure that they are drinking plenty of water.
“When you’re outside, take advantage of the shade, cover up with light, loose clothing, wear sunscreen and take water with you so you can keep hydrated.
“While open water such as lakes, rivers and reservoirs can look inviting, at this time of the year it will be extremely cold. Please don’t be tempted to think that they will be good to cool off in. Cold water shock is very dangerous. If we all look after each other, everyone can have a good long weekend.”
What to do if you fall into cold water:
The Met Office and RNLI recommend the following advice. If you unexpectedly find yourself in cold water, the most important thing is not to panic. Instead, follow these steps:
- Lean back and try to float, keeping your head above water.
- Extend your arms and legs to help you stay afloat.
- Control your breathing, this is key to surviving the initial shock.
- Once you’ve calmed your breathing, call for help or look for something to hold onto.
- If possible, swim to safety only once you’ve recovered from the initial effects.
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