Advice during the amber heat health alert

On Wednesday 8 July, The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued an Amber Heat-Health Alert affecting the South West, which is expected to remain in place until 9pm on Sunday 12 July.

The alert reflects the increased health risks associated with prolonged periods of hot weather and the potential impact on health and care services.

The Amber alert comes as NHS organisations across the South West continue to manage significant demand across urgent and emergency care services.

NHS advice to the public

The NHS is asking people to:

• Take extra care during the hot weather, especially if you have a long-term condition.
• Remember that hot weather can worsen existing health issues and increase the risk of dehydration and overheating.
• Stay aware that some medications can affect how the body regulates temperature.
• Take additional precautions if living with multiple health conditions.

Simple ways to stay well

• Stay out of direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm.
• Drink plenty of fluids and limit alcohol.
• Keep homes cool by closing curtains and blinds during the day.
• Plan activities for the morning or evening where possible.
• Wear loose, light-coloured clothing and seek shade when outdoors.
• Check on neighbours, friends and relatives who may be vulnerable.

If you have a health condition

• Monitor symptoms and seek advice early if they worsen.
• Make sure you have enough medication.
• Store medicines appropriately.
• Stay cool and hydrated.

Colleagues and teams across the trust are working hard to prepare as much as we can for an increase in patients needing to access our services, as well as ensuring the environments for patients and our colleagues are as comfortable as possible.

Over the weekend, our services may be busier than usual. If you do need to wait a longer to be seen, please be patient. You can also help us by choosing the best place for your needs – please see below as a reminder of where you can get care should you need it.

Which service should I access?

It is always important that if you need urgent medical care you continue to come forward as normal, especially in emergency and life-threatening cases - when someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.

For non-urgent care needs, we would encourage you to seek help from NHS 111, before attending our hospital sites. They can check waiting times at our Urgent Treatment Centres and confirm opening hours and X-ray availability. For more information on when to call 999 and when to go to an emergency department (ED), you can also visit the NHS UK website.

Further information on staying safe in hot weather or information for your area can be found on the NHS website and Somerset Council.

• NHS 111 for urgent medical advice.
• NHS 111 Online and the NHS App for advice on symptoms and health concerns.
• Community pharmacies for support with minor illnesses and health advice.
• The NHS website for information and signposting to local services.
• 999 for life-threatening emergencies.