Staying out of the sun between 11am and 3pm – the hottest part of the day, checking in on friends, relatives and neighbours, keeping curtains closed and not leaving children and pets in cars or other confined spaces is among the advice.
And the Jersey Fire and Rescue Service is asking Islanders to take extra care to ensure fires are not inadvertently started during the warm weather, which is due to continue tomorrow with highs of 27°C forecast and 28°C on Thursday.
Chief ambulance officer Peter Gavey said: ‘With temperatures forecast to become hot over the next couple of days, it is important that people, especially those at risk from the effects of exposure to heat, take precautions. Those at risk include elderly people, babies and young children as well as those with a serious chronic condition such as heart or breathing problems.
‘I would urge Islanders to stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm – the hottest part of the day – if they are vulnerable to the effects of the heat. Please also check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves.’
Islanders are also advised to:
• shut windows and pull down the shades, blinds or curtains when it is hotter outside
• keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn’t possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed
• have cool baths or showers, and drink plenty of water. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol
• wear loose, cool clothing
• use sunscreen and hats – especially for babies and young children
• avoid leaving children and pets in cars or other confined spaces, as extreme levels of heat can develop very quickly
Chief fire officer Paul Brown added: ‘During a period of settled dry weather the ground becomes so dry that the risk of a starting a wildfire increases, therefore it is important not to litter or leave glass lying around as the sunlight reflecting on the glass can start a fire. Please also do not drop matches or cigarettes, smoke or use any naked flames near gorse or heathland.
‘We want people to enjoy the hot weather and barbecue safely. I would remind people to only use barbecues in a safe area, away from areas of gorse or heathland, never to leave them unattended and to be careful when disposing of ashes to ensure that they are not still hot. Please also have a bucket of water or sand nearby the barbecue for emergencies.’
The JSPCA also issued advice for animal owners. Barbara Keywood, the organisation’s PR and media manager, said: ‘Owners should be keeping pets in the shade, walking dogs early in the day or later in the evening, do not travel or leave your dog in the car, providing shade for rabbits and guinea pigs etc – all animals will be affected with the rise in temperature.’
