Extreme Heat Warning Upgraded:
- Healthwatch West Berkshire
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
What West Berkshire Residents Need to Know
The weather forecast for Wednesday and Thursday has become increasingly serious, with parts of England now under a rare Red Heat Health Alert and temperatures expected to reach the high 30s, with some forecasts suggesting parts of the UK could approach 40°C. Health experts are warning that this level of heat can affect everyone, not just those who are traditionally considered vulnerable.
For West Berkshire, this means residents should take sensible precautions, check on others, and be aware of the risks that prolonged high temperatures can bring.
What Does a Red Heat Alert Mean?
A Red Heat Health Alert is the highest level of warning issued by the UK Health Security Agency and indicates a significant risk to life, even for healthy people. It means severe impacts are expected across health services, infrastructure, transport and daily life.
While older people, babies, young children and those with long-term health conditions remain at greatest risk, extreme heat can also affect fit and healthy adults, particularly those working outdoors or undertaking strenuous activity.
How to Keep Yourself Safe
Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.
Avoid excessive alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
Carry water with you when travelling.
Keep Cool Indoors
Close curtains, blinds and windows during the hottest part of the day.
Open windows in the evening and overnight when temperatures drop.
Use fans if available, but remember they become less effective in extreme temperatures.
Avoid the Hottest Part of the Day
Limit outdoor activity between 11am and 3pm.
If you need to be outside, stay in the shade where possible.
Wear loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and a hat.
Protect Your Skin
Apply sunscreen regularly.
Seek shade whenever possible.
Remember that sunburn increases the body's difficulty in regulating temperature.
Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Watch out for:
Headaches
Dizziness
Excessive sweating
Nausea
Muscle cramps
Tiredness or weakness
If symptoms worsen or someone becomes confused, unresponsive, or stops sweating despite being hot, seek urgent medical help as these may be signs of heatstroke.
Check on Vulnerable People
One of the most important things residents can do is look out for others.
Consider checking in with:
Older neighbours
Friends or family living alone
People with heart, respiratory or kidney conditions
People with disabilities
Those who may struggle to leave the house
New parents with young babies
A simple phone call, text message, or doorstep conversation could make a significant difference.
Ask:
Do they have enough drinking water?
Are they managing to keep cool?
Do they need shopping or medication collected?
Have they been outside during the hottest hours?
Health experts specifically advise people to look out for elderly relatives, neighbours and those with underlying health conditions during periods of extreme heat.
Be Careful Around Water
However, water can remain surprisingly cold even during a heatwave. Sudden immersion can cause cold water shock, leading to panic, breathing difficulties and, in some cases, drowning. Tragically, there is often an increase in water-related incidents during hot weather.
If you are visiting local rivers or lakes:
Never enter the water alone.
Avoid jumping into unknown water.
Enter the water slowly.
Supervise children closely.
Respect warning signs and local advice.
Don't Forget Pets
Animals can suffer from heat-related illness too.
Remember to:
Ensure pets always have access to fresh water.
Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening.
Avoid hot pavements that can burn paws.
Never leave animals in parked vehicles.
A Community Effort
Extreme weather events are becoming more common, and the best protection is often community support. A quick check-in with a neighbour, offering to collect shopping, or simply making sure someone has enough water and a cool place to rest can help prevent serious illness.
As temperatures climb this week, let's work together to keep ourselves, our families, friends and neighbours safe.
Comments