Warning to take care in the hot weather

Residents have been urged to keep an eye on any vulnerable friends and neighbours over the coming days, with temperatures expected to reach 26 degrees and beyond.

The Met Office issued a Heat Health Alert Level 3 for Wednesday, meaning people should take action heatwave.

Elderly people, children under the age of two and those with heart or respiratory problems are most at risk, with heat exhaustion being treated by moving someone to a cooler place and drinking fluids.

Trudi Grant, director of public health at Somerset County Council, said: “While many of us look forward to warm summer weather, heatwaves do come with a health warning.

“The health effects of intense heat can come on very quickly. So please enjoy the sunshine, but do so safely, and keep an eye on anyone you know who might be struggling to cope.

“Make sure they are keeping their home cool, drinking plenty of water and not doing any strenuous activity, particularly avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day.”

Vets are warning pet owners to be aware of the problems a heatwave can cause for pets.

Huw Stacey, director of clinical services at Vets4Pets, said: “Most people know not to leave pets in cars on a warm or hot day, but not everyone is aware that conservatories or caravans can be just as bad with temperatures rising dangerously high, quicker than you might think.

“Even when it feels relatively mild outside, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach up to 130 degrees in less than 30 minutes.

We must also help other small pets keep safe in the summer heat.”

To help owners provide the best welfare for their pets during hot weather, Vets4Pets has issued some simple tips to help pets enjoy, rather than endure, summer.

Cats and dogs • Make sure cats and dogs have plenty of fresh, cold water available at all times

• Check and top up at least twice a day and consider leaving water in more than one place so they are never too far from a bowl. Putting ice cubes in the bowl will keep the water nice and cool and encourage them to drink more

• When pets are outdoors, make sure they always have access to shade

• Use pet sun block to protect any areas not protected by fur like tips of ears and noses, especially white ones

• Walk your dogs either early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the hottest parts of the day

• Consider having pets with long fur clipped to make them more comfortable during the hot weather

• Watch out for signs of heatstroke and call your vet straight away for advice if concerned. Signs of heatstroke can include excessive panting, extreme salivation, distress and anxious behaviour, dark red gums and a rapid heart rate