Island Residents Urged To Protect Vulnerable People During Heatwave

People on the Isle of Wight are being urged to check on vulnerable neighbours and take extra care around open water as the ongoing heatwave continues to put pressure on health services.

Speaking at an Isle of Wight Council meeting, the authority's Director of Public Health, Kate Harvey, said periods of extreme heat can lead to an increase in illness and are placing particular strain on the NHS.

NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight has declared a critical incident following the UK Health Security Agency's red heat-health alert, which warns of a risk to life, including for people who are normally fit and healthy.

Councillor Michael Lilley said many vulnerable Island residents would be finding the current conditions particularly challenging.

Ms Harvey said the council's public health advice includes avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, staying protected from the sun, drinking plenty of fluids and checking on older people, young children and those with long-term health conditions.

She added that residents should also be aware of the dangers of cold-water swimming, saying water safety is an additional concern during hot weather.

Councillor Ed Blake also highlighted the importance of staying safe around the coast, warning that incidents involving people getting into difficulty in the water remain a significant risk on the Isle of Wight.

The council is encouraging people to continue sharing its heat-health advice with family, friends and neighbours while the hot weather continues.