Health and wellbeing
Walsall residents urged to take action as Red Heat Health Alert issued
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Walsall residents are being urged to take action and look out for others as exceptionally high temperatures are forecast this week, bringing a significant risk to health.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued a Red Heat Health Alert for the West Midlands for Wednesday 24 June and Thursday 25 June. This indicates severe impacts are expected across all sectors, with a high risk to health for the whole population, as well as those who are usually vulnerable.
An exceptional period of hot and humid weather is expected, and conditions may become dangerous, particularly for those who are exposed to heat for prolonged periods or unable to keep cool. Residents are strongly encouraged to take extra precautions, stay cool, and check regularly on anyone who may be at greater risk and make sure they are safe and able to keep cool.
A co-ordinated response is underway across council services, health partners and community organisations to support residents and reduce risks.
Due to the extreme conditions, council and partner services are expected to be under significant pressure.
- Residents are asked to ensure their bins are out for collection by 5:30am, or the night before, as collections may take place earlier than usual.
- Our Customer Experience Centre is continuing to support residents and will prioritise urgent calls where needed. Please only contact the council if you need urgent support during this time.
- Schools across Walsall are being supported with public health guidance and will take appropriate steps to protect pupils and staff during the hot weather.
“ With a Red Heat Health Alert now in place, it’s really important that we all take steps to stay well and look out for one another during this period of very hot weather. These conditions can affect anyone, but older people, young children and those with underlying health conditions may need extra support to stay cool and hydrated.
Checking in on family, friends and neighbours can make a real difference, especially for those who may struggle in the heat. Simple actions like keeping indoor spaces shaded by closing curtains on sun-facing rooms can help keep homes cooler. Please also see the West Midlands Fire Service website for advice about the dangers of open water.
Try to avoid being outside during the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm. If you do need to go out, stay in the shade where possible, wear a hat, apply sunscreen regularly and drink plenty of water. It’s also important never to leave children or animals in parked vehicles, as temperatures can rise very quickly.
Keep up to date with the latest weather forecast and visit the NHS website for further advice and support. If you or someone else feels unwell, dizzy or very thirsty, move to a cool place, drink fluids and cool down. Advice is available from NHS 111, or call 999 in an emergency.
By taking a few sensible precautions and checking in on others, we can all help reduce the risks and stay well during the hot weather. “
Support for rough sleepers
Individuals experiencing homelessness face an increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
The Rough Sleepers Team have been completing outreach work identifying homeless individuals and providing water, sunscreen, guidance, and shelter as needed during the current hot weather.
To report rough sleepers in Walsall and request assistance from the team, please make a referral using the following method:
Streetlink website: http://thestreetlink.org.uk
Email: RooflessReferral@walsall.gov.uk
Tel: 01922 652250 – Option 4.
You may also find the following website useful when supporting a rough sleeper or someone facing homelessness: https://streetsupport.net
Further information
Detailed guidance on responding to Heat Health Alerts, including actions for different sectors, is available on GOV.UK: Heat-Health Alerting system - GOV.UK
For advice on staying safe in hot weather, visit the NHS website. You can also visit the UKHSA Beat the Heat web page, which is available to translate into different languages.
During hot weather, residents should take care when around open water. To find out more visit the West Midlands Fire Service website.
