Red (emergency response) - A red alert would indicate significant risk to life for event the health population. A red warning would be issued in conjunction with and aligned to a red NSWWS Extreme Heat warning. Several impacts would be expected across all sectors with a coordinated response essential.

View details of the warning on the Weather Health Alertssite.

Hot weather can affect your health. The people most likely to be affected are the elderly, the very young, and people with pre-existing medical conditions.

If you know or look after someone that may be susceptible to the effects of this hot weather period please help make sure that they stay cool and well, and if possible check in advance that they are prepared for this hot spell.

Please follow this advice to keep cool and comfortable and reduce health risks:

• Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside. If it's safe, open them for ventilation when it is cooler.
• Avoid the heat: stay out of the sun and don't go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day).
• Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).
• Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water.
• Drink cold drinks regularly, such as water and fruit juice. Avoid tea, coffee and alcohol.
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies, such as food, water and any medications you need.
• Identify the coolest room in the house so you know where to go to keep cool.
• Wear loose, cool clothing and a hat if you go outdoors.

Also, please don’t forget about the animals in your care and view the top tips for keeping pets cool in hot weather by using the RSPCA link below.

For more information go to:

• UK Health Security Agency Adverse Weather Health Plan
• UKHSA & Met Office Weather Health Alerts
• NHS Choices Heatwave: be prepared
• WSCC Dealing with extreme weather
• WSCC https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/campaigns/keeping-safe-this-summer/
• WSCC Preparing for emergencies
• Follow us on Twitter for regular updates@WSCCNews @WSCCResilience@wspublichealth

RSPCA Top tips for keeping pets cool in hot weather