Health professionals are encouraging residents of Humber and North Yorkshire to be prepared for the upcoming Spring bank holiday weekend – and stock up home medicine cabinets with some sunshine essentials.
With warm weather forecast and many of us spending prolonged periods outdoors, it’s important to wear sun cream, drink plenty of water to keep hydrated and know what to do if you are unlucky enough to be stung or bitten.
By being prepared, you may save yourself an unnecessary trip to hospital, which are often busier during public holidays.
If you do become unwell over the bank holiday weekend, you can visit the new Let’s Get Better website for information about health services you can access – including the nearest available pharmacy or NHS 111.
Katy Tennyson, Community Pharmacy Clinical Lead at Humber and North Yorkshire Integrated Care Board, said: “Warm weather is forecast for most of our region, so it’s important people take extra precautions – especially if they are very young, elderly or seriously ill.
“You can follow these simple steps to stay safe and beat the heat:
- Wear light and loose clothing
- Regularly apply sunscreen and wear a hat when outdoors
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
- Stay in the shade or cooler rooms in your home
“There are a wide range of common illnesses and injuries that can also be treated at home with over-the-counter medicines and plenty of rest. Community pharmacy staff can give advice, support with managing symptoms and recommend treatments where appropriate.
“Make sure your medicine cabinet at home is stocked with essentials so you can treat simple ailments yourself, without needing to see a GP. A&E departments and 999 are for emergencies only, in serious or life-threatening situations.”
Hotter temperatures can make it tempting to go for a swim to cool off, the Royal Life Saving Society warns that the temperature of open water will still be low, which may lead to difficulties caused by cold water shock.
Those planning to go swimming should choose a safe place, such as a lifeguarded beach.