If you are heading to Brands Hatch to watch the Paralympics road cycling, don’t forget to go well prepared as hot and sunny weather is forecast for the next couple of days.
Meradin Peachey, Director of Public Health in Kent, says: “If the weather is hot and sunny, we urge people to stay cool, drink cold drinks and protect their skin. With a little bit of planning ahead, people can join in the fun safely.”
NHS Kent and Medway gives their top tips below to help people enjoy the Paralympics safely:
- Avoid the midday sun – If you are watching the road race, find a place to watch which is in the shade at the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm
- Protect your skin – Pack sun screen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 in your bag and remember to apply it regularly, even if it is cloudy
- Stay hydrated - Make sure you have plenty of cold drinks, such as water and fruit juices, with you. If you are watching at Brands Hatch, you can only take in 100ml of liquids so take empty water bottles to fill up inside
- Cover up – Wear a wide brimmed hat, sunglasses and loose, comfortable clothing
- Drink responsibly - If you drink alcohol, don’t let it stop you enjoying the celebrations. Eat well, and drink water or soft drinks in between alcoholic drinks
- Carry medication - If you need medication, bring enough, carry it with you at all times and keep it in a secure place. If you need to get more medication in an emergency or require over-the-counter medicines, visit your nearest pharmacy. You can find your nearest pharmacy by visiting www.nhs.uk/2012 or calling 0845 46 47
- Look out for others - In hot weather, children, older people and those who are seriously ill are most at risk of overheating
- Heatstroke advice – Heat can make heart and respiratory problems worse and, in extreme cases, excess heat can lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal. If you have symptoms such as breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, dizziness, weakness or cramps that get worse or don't go away, go to your nearest Accident and Emergency department or call 999.
For more information, visit www.nhs.uk/2012.
07 September 2012
