TEMPERATURES are rising across the Black Country today, prompting Dudley health bosses to issue a few simple tips to stay well in the warm weather.

Dr Steve Mann from Dudley CCG said heat is especially dangerous for the very young, older people or those with serious illnesses and can make existing heart and respiratory problems worse.

In addition, heat exhaustion can be extremely unpleasant, while heat stroke can, in severe cases be very dangerous.

People suffering from heat exhaustion generally experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, pale skin and high temperature.

To combat heat exhaustion it is recommended that people move somewhere cool, drink plenty of water or fruit juice and take a lukewarm shower, sponge themselves with cold water or even use an electric fan.

Suffers of heatstroke would experience many of the symptoms associated with heat exhaustion, but could also display, intense thirst, sleepiness, hot, red, and dry skin, a sudden rise in temperature and aggression, confusion, convulsions or loss of consciousness.

Heat stroke requires medical attention, and anyone who believes they are suffering should contact NHS 111 for advice.

In order to stay well and avoid conditions such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke, NHS Dudley has recommending people follow these simple tips:

Stay out of the heat

• Try to keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm, especially people with serious health problems (for example heart conditions)

• If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat

• Avoid extreme physical exertion.

• Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes.

Cool yourself down

• Have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks.

• Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content.

• Take a cool shower, bath or body wash.

• Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck.

• Use an electric fan

Keep your environment cool

• Keeping your living space cool is especially important for infants, the elderly or those with chronic health conditions or who can’t look after themselves

• Place a thermometer in your main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the temperature.

• Keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped.

• Close curtains that receive morning or afternoon sun. However, care should be taken with metal blinds and dark curtains, as these can absorb heat – consider replacing or putting reflective material in-between them and the window space.

• Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment – they generate heat.

• Keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air.

• If possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping.

• Electric fans may provide some relief.

Look out for others

• Keep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people and make sure they are able to keep cool.

• Ensure that babies, children or elderly people are not left alone in stationary cars.

• Check on elderly or sick neighbours, family or friends every day during a heatwave.

• Be alert and call a doctor or social services if someone is unwell or further help is needed.