Northern Ireland could see hottest day on record as temperatures to rise to 30C
Here are some top tips on how to enjoy yourself safely and look after vulnerable people during the hot weather
Last updated 18th Jul 2022
As a heatwave arrives in the UK, Northern Ireland could see it's highest recorded temperature smashed.
On Sunday, Northern Ireland had its hottest day of the year with 27.7C recorded in Armagh.
The highest temperature ever recorded in Northern Ireland was 31.3C in Castlederg in County Tyrone back in July last year.
Unlike the rest of the UK, we do not have an extreme heat warning but parts of the west around Fermanagh, west Tyrone and south Armagh could be closer to 30C on Monday.
There is a red warning for parts of England on Monday and Tuesday which means the hot conditions could be potentially life-threatening.
The Public Health Agency say that we must "remember that as temperatures creep up, some people can be more susceptible to the heat, and all of us need to protect ourselves from the strong ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun."
Dr Brid Farrell, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “With hot weather being a rarity here it is understandable that we all want to get out and enjoy the sunshine, but we’re asking people to make sure they’re protecting themselves when they’re out and about and check in on friends and family members.
“It is important to look after older people and those more susceptible to potential health issues in warmer weather. If you have a friend or relative who is less mobile or might need a little help, make sure to check in on them. Help them stay hydrated with regular cold drinks, avoiding alcohol. Help them keep their home cool by shutting curtains if the sun is coming through and opening the windows in the evening or at night when it’s cooler.
“Encourage them to wear light, loose-fitting clothing so they’re not too hot and if you or anyone you know begins to feel sick or dizzy, keep out of the sun and seek medical advice.
“The PHA has also written to care home providers in Northern Ireland with advice and guidance on helping to look after residents during hotter spells of weather.”
Top tips for looking after yourself and others in hot weather:
- Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk
- Stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
- Check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly
- Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest
- Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat
- Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
- Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling
- Take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down
Get Water Wise - Advice for staying safe in water 🌊
Should you be swimming there?
Look for warnings or guidance signs which may alert you to dangerous places to swim. Is there a safe place to enter and exit the water? If the answer is no, look for somewhere else.
Keep within the designated areas
Whether you're swimming in a pool, ocean or lake, staying within the designated swim areas is vital to staying safe. On a lifeguarded beach, stay between the red and yellow flags.
Wear a life vest
Young children or inexperienced swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-certified life jacket around water. The beach might look inviting in the glorious sunshine, but it can be freezing beneath the surface. A wetsuit, swim belt and/or dry bag are advised.
Never swim alone
The safest places to go swimming outdoors will have lifeguards on duty, and you will be much safer swimming with friends than on your own.
Don't use inflatables in the sea
Inflatables, blow-up toys and airbeds are designed for pools, and shouldn't be used in the sea, as they can easily be swept out.
Expect a current
Always check the tidal activity before you go in, so you know what to expect. It's difficult to swim in a straight line with rip currents, waves and tides moving you in different directions under the water. Don't forget to keep an eye on the shoreline too!
Stay calm and signal
If you do get into difficulty swimming outside, fight the instinct to swim harder and against the water. Stay calm and signal to shore for help.
Dial 999 to help others
If you see someone else in trouble, do not go into the water to help them. Instead, call 999 or alert a lifeguard immediately. Check to see if there is something nearby that floats you can throw to them for help.
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