Health and wellbeing
Health advice for Walsall residents as heat health alert is issued
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With temperatures expected to rise this week, Walsall residents are advised to take steps to stay well during the hot weather, as the UK Health Security Agency (in partnership with the Met Office) has issued an amber heat health alert for the West Midlands. This will be in place from 12 to 13 August 2025
High temperatures can pose serious health risks, particularly for older adults, young children, and individuals with long-term health conditions. Residents are encouraged to take simple steps to protect themselves and others:
- Keep indoor spaces cool by closing curtains or blinds that face the sun.
- Check in on vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours who may need extra support.
- Stay hydrated and protected outdoors by carrying bottled water, applying sunscreen regularly, and avoiding direct sun exposure between 11am and 3pm.
- Protect young children from the heat, as they are more likely to become unwell in the hot weather.
- Recognise signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, such as dizziness, weakness, or excessive thirst. Move to a cooler place, rehydrate, and rest. For urgent advice, visit NHS 111 online or call 111. In emergencies, dial 999.
- Avoid open water dangers, including canals, lakes, and other waterways. For safety guidance, visit the West Midlands Fire Service website.
Further information on staying safe during hot weather is available on the UKHSA and NHS websites, including advice on how to beat the heat and recognise heat-related illnesses.
Full details about the Heat Health alert service can be found on the Met Office website. You can register to receive the alerts directly by completing the online form.
Support for rough sleepers
Individuals experiencing homelessness face an increased risk of heat-related illnesses because they often lack shelter, as well as consistent access to showers and drinking water.
The Rough Sleepers Team staff 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
This article was updated at 12:30pm on 11 August 2025 to reflect the updated heat health alert.
