HEALTH officials in Bournemouth are taking emergency steps to protect the elderly and young amid growing fears of a severe heat warning.

The Met Office has issued a heat-health warning for parts of the region as temperatures creep towards 30C.

A level three warning - which requires action from healthcare authorities - was issued for the South East, including Hampshire and the New Forest, this morning.

Bournemouth Echo:

Keeping cool in Bournemouth gardens this afternoon

The warning is triggered when forecasters think there is a 90% chance temperatures will reach 31C two days running.

The South West of the country remains at a level 2 warning, meaning there is a 60% chance of temperatures reaching 30C.

Older people, babies and children, and people who do a lot of outdoor activity are considered particularly at risk in very hot weather.

Emergency planning officer for Bournemouth and Christchurch hospitals, Troy Welch, said they were already taking action and urged the public to follow suit.

“There is currently a 60 per cent risk of a level three warning so we feel it is better to be prepared. We are taking steps to safeguard our patients such as ensuring they eat foods with high water content like fruit and salads which can help to rehydrate the body.

“Other precautions include checking room temperatures, keeping windows and curtains closed during the day but opening them at night when air is cooler.”

He added that young children were also at risk.

“Giving them ice lollies or ice cubes with their drinks can help to increase their fluid intake. We would also urge people to keep drinks in their cars as there is more risk of traffic congestion in hot weather and also to use the air conditioning as research shows it has no more affect on fuel consumption than keeping the windows open.

“Other advice includes reducing alcohol consumption and watching out for neighbours and vulnerable relatives.

“We tend to be more vigilant during the winter months, but it is just as important to keep an eye on the elderly in hot weather too.”

Paul Compton, spokesman for Dorset's public health team said: “We are keeping a close eye on the situation - especially on Friday and Saturday which could be particularly hot.”

The NHS recommends staying out of the sun between 11.00am and 3.00pm, avoiding extreme physical exertion, wearing light, loose-fitting cotton clothes, and making sure you walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat.

For more advice, click below.

heatwaveadvice.pdf