Here's how you can keep avoid hot weather ailments and injuries

The recent spate of hot weather and longer days is bringing many people outdoors for barbeques, team sports, outdoor activities and more.

But long weekends also lead to more trips to urgent care or even A&E.

In fact, local health professionals claim heat-related illness and injuries can ramp up attendance to hospital emergency departments during the summer months.

And they say they are usually all preventable by remembering common sense advice, or can be treated either at home or with support from your pharmacist or GP.

Dr Gavin Lunn, GP and clinical lead for Mansfield and Ashfield clinical commissioning group, says demand for appointments does not let up during summer months, with illnesses associated with hot weather and outdoor activity replacing winter pressures.

Local hospitals also experience a high level of demand from patients attending with health issues which can be treated in more appropriate settings or even avoided with simple ways to cope with the heat.

Dr Thomas Waite, of Public Health England, said: “Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense.

“Now is a really good time to think about what you can do to protect yourself and your family and friends from heat.

“For some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and young children, the summer heat can bring real health risks.

“That’s why we’re urging everyone to keep an eye on those you know who may be at risk this summer.

“If you’re able, ask if your friends, family or neighbours need any support.”

Health professionals have identified some of the most common reasons why patients experience different kinds of illnesses and injuries during summer months – and what can be done to prevent you or loved one being among them.

During summer months, people often go to their doctor with a heat-related condition, from mild dehydration to severe heatstroke.

Be mindful of the temperature, stay hydrated and avoid being outside for prolonged periods of time if the temperature is high.

Top ways of staying safe in the heat

* Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions;

* Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler. And remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors;

* Drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated;

* Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals;

* Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm;

* Take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into the water to cool down;

* Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat;

* Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day;

* Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes;

* Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling.