HOT on the heels of the Met Office issuing an Amber Warning of extreme heat, the NHS has issued some advice on staying safe.

A spokesperson for the NHS said: ‘Here are some tips for staying safe in the heat:

“If you get injured on the beach, lifeguard stations can provide advice and first aid for minor injuries such as cuts or stings;

“During warm weather going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief, take care and follow local safety advice;

“Drink plenty of fluids, keep water with you and avoid excess alcohol; try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm; walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat;

“Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day,” the spokesman said.

Issuing the Amber Warning on Monday, a Met Office spokesperson said: ‘High temperatures are expected both by day and by night, peaking Thursday before temperatures fall on Friday.’

The Beacon’s weatherman Jonathan Powell also commented:’"This extreme heat warning is unprecedented and should not be taken likely. It’s not the actual settled weather that has triggered the warning, as we have obviously had runs of dry and warm weather like this before.

’’However, it’s the sustained high temperatures that have tipped the balance, constantly hitting the late 20’s and early 30’s.

’’During this time, aside from applying the suncream and keeping well hydrated, it may well be an idea to check in on elderly neighbours as well.

’’By the end of the week the heat will eventually give way to cooler conditions, with thunderstorms likely to bring the settled weather to an end"

How are you keeping cool?

Tell us, or better still send us a picture, of how you are managing to stay cool – [email protected]