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Monday 22nd June - The Met office has issued a red alert, warning of temperatures rising to up to 39 degrees this week.

The weather warning for extreme heat has been issued for many parts of Essex from 9am on Wednesday until 9pm on Thursday.

This means that severe impacts are expected across health and social care, with an increased risk to life, particularly among older people and those with underlying conditions, but also healthy people.

By Friday, temperatures are expected to be less warm but there will still be highs of 32 degrees in some areas.

Keeping safe during the hot weather

Keeping as cool as possible during a heatwave is very important. Here are some hints and tips:

Try and keep your home cool by closing windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun
Look out for people who may be struggling due to the hot weather, such as older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone, who are particularly at risk
Drink plenty of fluids, especially water and avoid excess alcohol or caffeine
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
Check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
If you go outside, make sure you walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat
Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
If are you travelling make sure you take plenty of water with you

Symptoms of overheating and what to do

Hot weather can affect your health more quickly than you might expect, so it’s important to recognise the signs of overheating early.

Knowing what to look out for, and what to do, can help you stay safe during periods of extreme heat.

Symptoms to look out for:

Headaches
Feeling dizzy or faint
Heavy sweating
Muscle cramps
Nausea
Unusually fast breathing or heartbeat

What to do:

Move to a cooler place (indoors or in the shade)
Drink plenty of water or rehydration drinks
Cool down your body (loosen clothing, use a fan, apply a cool cloth or take a cool shower)
Rest and avoid further heat exposure