DUE to the recent heat wave Hampshire Ambulance Service is experiencing an increased number of calls to members of the public suffering from dehydration and heat exhaustion.

A spokesperson from Hampshire Ambulance service explained: "Most people living in the UK are unused to high temperatures. If temperatures are very high it is important to reduce the risk of dehydration particularly in young children and the elderly. You can do this by avoiding long periods of time in the sun, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding alcohol and drinks containing caffeine. It is also important to avoid strenuous physical activity if possible and take care to cool yourself down if you feel you may be overheating."

She continued: "It is important to note that you can also get sunstroke in the UK, particularly if there is a heatwave. Always use a wide-spectrum high sun protection factor (SPF) 15+ sunscreen. Listen to weather forecasts so that you can plan to stay out of the heat, especially in the hottest part of the day (11 am – 3 pm). In very hot weather, close the curtains in rooms that get a lot of sun, and stay inside in the middle of the day, in the coolest rooms in your house."