HSE warning ahead of high temperatures

Temperatures are expected to reach at least 30°C in some parts over the coming days.

Published: Sat 16 Jul 2022, 11:30 AM

Last updated: Sat 16 Jul 2022, 2:12 PM

The HSE has urged people to take care due to the high temperatures forecast for Ireland in the coming days.

In a message to people across the region, the organisation says people need to be careful in the sun and heed advice.

Met Éireann has issued a high temperature advisory warning for the entire country as temperatures are set to reach and in some areas exceed 30°C early next week.

In a statement, Dr Deirdre Mulholland, Area Director of Public Health Area A, which covers counties Cavan, Louth, Meath, Monaghan and North Dublin, urged people to stay safe and protect themselves from the sun.

“Although we all enjoy warm weather in Ireland, the hot temperatures increase the risk of dehydration, fainting, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and small children.

"It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day by drinking plenty of fluids and don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Symptoms of dehydration include thirstiness, a dry mouth, headache, light headedness or dizziness. If you suspect that you or someone else is severely dehydrated, please seek immediate medical attention.”

We're being advised to take precautions, like avoiding direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm, seeking shade if you are out in the heat during those times and try to keep physical exertion to the cooler part of the day.

Dr Kenneth Beatty, Specialist in Public Health Medicine, HSE Area A has warned of the dangers of skin cancer.

“Blue skies and sunshine are a very welcome sight. However, it is important for people enjoy the good weather safely. Children and babies have very sensitive skin which can burn easily. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland, yet it is largely preventable by protecting skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

"We need to take the necessary steps to make sure that we protect ourselves from harmful UV rays from the sun."

Remember the HSE SunSmart 5 S’s:

Slip on clothing: Cover skin as much as possible, wear long sleeves, collared t-shirts.

Slop on broad-spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen: Apply sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30+ for adults and 50+ for children, with high UVA protection and water-resistance. Reapply sunscreen regularly.