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Met Éireann aren't the only ones issuing warnings due to the weather

As temperatures are set to hit 27 degrees in some places this afternoon several organisations hav...
Newstalk
Newstalk

14.02 19 Jul 2016


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Met Éireann aren't the...

Met Éireann aren't the only ones issuing warnings due to the weather

Newstalk
Newstalk

14.02 19 Jul 2016


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As temperatures are set to hit 27 degrees in some places this afternoon several organisations have issued warnings in relation to the soaring heat.

While we don't want to suck the fun out of the weather, there are some important things to remember when it comes to staying safe in the sun.

To make it easy for you, we've compiled a list of a few of their tips:

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Protect your skin from UV damage

Getting too much sun can be harmful for you whatever your age, as it exposes your skin to ultra-violet rays that can damage your skin and lead to cancer.

When in Ireland it is best to get into the habit of protecting your skin every day from April to September, whatever the weather. Even in spring and autumn, when the weather is still cool, UV levels can high enough to cause damage.

Some sun on your skin is good for you as it is the best natural source of vitamin D, so the Irish Cancer Society has issued some tips about how to get the best protection as possible while still enjoying the good weather:

  • Seek shade - good shade can give up to 75% protection from UV rays
  • Cover up - linen, cotton and hemp clothes in dark colour work best
  • Wear a hat - cover up face, neck, head and ears
  • Wear sunglasses - go for wrap around ones and make sure they give UV protection
  • Use suncream - with SPF 15 or higher (SPF 30 or higher for children) and UVA protection
  • Check the UV index - if it's 3 or more take extra care

Protect yourself from the heat

The HSE has issued advice from the National Ambulance Service for the warm weather.

The most vulnerable in hot weather are the very young, older people or those with existing chronic or long-term medical conditions. In particular, it can make heart and respiratory problems worse.

In extreme cases, excess heat can lead to heat stroke, which can be fatal.

Their tips for staying cool are:

  • Shut windows and pull down the shades when it is hotter outside
  • Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows, or light-coloured curtains
  • 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 if it gets too hot
  • Wear loose, cool clothing, and a hat if you go outdoors
  • Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less able to look after themselves

People are also being advised to avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm, and to be aware of headaches, dizziness and cramp which can be caused by high temperatures.

Stay safe around water

Irish Water Safety has advised the public to swim at beaches with life guards if possible and to play it safe around water.

The organisation have said that 62% of drownings occur in in-land waterways, and so far this year five swimmers have drowned in Ireland.

John Leech of Irish Water Safety also reminded people not drink alcohol before going swimming: "30% of the people who have drowned in Ireland have taken drink."

The group is also warning of the dangers associated with jumping from heights into the water, and Leech has reminded parents need to be very vigilant near water.

The HSE also have issued detailed information about safe swimming:

Keep an eye on your pets

Two animal rights groups are calling on owners to keep their pets cool during the heatwave.

Dogs Trust Ireland says long walks and long journeys should be avoided in hot weather, and it is also reminding owners to apply pet-friendly sun cream to their dogs. 

The DSPCA has similar advice and is advising pet owners not to leave their pets in cars, even with the window open.

It is also asking people to keep pets in a cool place, with plenty of access to water (or doggie icecream).

Whatever your plans are for the hottest day of the year, enjoy it as Met Eireann says the hot spell won't last much longer.

Forecaster John Eagleton, says the current heatwave is due to a warm air mass that's moved across the country from southern Europe and temperatures are likely to return to normal later in the week.


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