Council reinforces government heatwave plans (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Council reinforces government heatwave plans

AS the current spell of hot weather continues, the government’s heatwave plans are being reinforced by Warwickshire County Council.

The county council’s Emergency Planning Unit is responding to national advice being given by the Department of Health in preparation for a hot summer ahead and is working with county council colleagues to ensure that the most vulnerable Warwickshire residents receive support.

Sally Lange, emergency planning officer for Warwickshire, said: "The risks from hot weather are very real. People can reduce the risks by planning ahead, listening to their local weather forecasts and taking care in the sun.

"The advice from the Department of Health may sound like common sense but when the temptation is to get out and enjoy the hot weather people still need to be aware that extreme heat can seriously damage your health."

Leaflets produced by the Department of Health are being made available across the county at doctors’ surgeries and libraries.. More information and advice is available from the Emergency Planning Unit pages on Warwickshire County Council’s website at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/epu.

There are also links from the website to the Department of Health’s website www.dh.gov.uk/publications offering advice on supporting vulnerable people before and during a heat wave and the www.metoffice.gov.uk for Heat-Health Watch information and weather forecasts and www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk for medical advice.

Advice is also being distributed to social care managers and staff who will be able to identify those most at risk and ensure that appropriate care is provided in a heat wave.

Ron Williamson, head of communities and wellbeing at the council, said: "It is important that staff are aware of the dangers associated with extreme heat so that action can be taken to protect those most at risk during a heatwave. When temperatures are abnormally high, simple measures such as ensuring windows can be opened and shaded, checking that there are enough fans and that those at risk drink plenty of water, can all help to reduce the health risks."