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With temperatures expected to rise over the next few days, people in the Black Country are being advised to take precautions.

The Met Office, in partnership with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), has issued a yellow heat health alert, indicating that high temperatures could pose a risk to health, particularly for older adults, young children, babies, and those with long-term health conditions.

Temperatures are expected to increase over the next few days, with the yellow alert in effect from tomorrow (Friday 27 June) to Tuesday 1 July.

To stay safe and well during this period of hot weather, people are advised to:

Avoid going out during the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm)
• Plan physical activities such as exercise or dog walking for the cooler hours of the
morning or evening
• Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains or blinds on sun-facing windows
• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat if you go outside
• Stay in the shade and use sunscreen regularly
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
• Check in on elderly relatives, neighbours, and anyone who may be more vulnerable
• Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and know when to seek help.

Dr Ananta Dave, Chief Medical Officer for the NHS Black Country Integrated Care Board, said: “It’s vital that we all take sensible steps to stay cool and hydrated, especially as prolonged periods of heat can pose significant health risks. People who are older, very young, or living with medical conditions are particularly at risk, so keeping an eye on those around us is more important than ever.

“The main risks of hot weather include dehydration, overheating, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. These can also worsen symptoms for people with heart or breathing problems.

“If you or someone else starts to feel unwell, dizzy, weak, or very thirsty, move to a cooler place, rehydrate, and rest. If symptoms persist or get worse, visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice.”

Young carers are children and young people aged 8 to 18 who help care for someone in their family because of a mental health illness, physical illness or disability or because of drugs and alcohol issues.

As Muslims begin to prepare for Ramadan, the NHS has shared a reminder about how to stay safe and healthy during the holy month.
Ramadan is expected to start on Friday 28 February and end on Sunday 30 March, during which time many Muslims will fast and not eat or drink during daylight hours. Fasting during Ramadan can be challenging, especially for those living with a long-term health condition such as diabetes, those who take prescribed medicines or anyone who needs a medical appointment during the holy month.

The NHS has issued important advice to ensure a healthy and safe Ramadan, including:

• If you have a long-term health condition:
Having a medical condition doesn’t mean people can’t fast, but they may need to take precautions such as reviewing their med cation and closely monitoring how they’re feeling. There is also an exemption for people with diabetes, especially for those on insulin or those with any medical complications. If you have diabetes and want to fast during Ramadan, please speak to your GP or diabetes nurse about the safest way to do this. If you monitor your blood glucose levels, you should continue to do so while fasting.

• If you take prescribed medication:
If you are taking prescribed medicines to control an illness, you should continue taking them during Ramadan to prevent further, serious complications developing. You can check with your GP or pharmacist if the doses need to be adjusted or the times that you take them need to be changed. This will allow you to control your illness while completing a fast safely. Those who are unsure about fasting should always seek advice from their healthcare professional.

• If you have a medical condition:
It is important that people keep all medical appointments where possible in Ramadan. If you feel you are unable to keep your appointment, please contact your GP or hospital to re-schedule your appointment for as soon as possible after the holy month ends.