Essential dos and don’ts during the heat in Manchester

We’re not cut out for this heat in Manchester. On holiday, we’re prepared and there’s usually air con in most places.

As the city prepares for more soaring temperatures between 36-38 degrees celsius, its public health chief is reminding everyone about the essential five actions for staying safe and well.

“As always the people of this city are ready to help one another,” says David Regan, Director of Public Health for Manchester, “especially as we now face exceptionally high temperatures over the next few days.

“I’d also like to say thank you to everyone who has made changes to their routines or is helping the city with the extreme heat response for the next few days.”

Essential dos to beat the heat in Manchester

Most people will already be following these top five tips, but here is a reminder:

Drink plenty of water

Keep hydrated throughout the day.

Shade

Slow down and get some shade, avoid being out or exercising at peak sun time. Why not visit Great Northern Warehouse, visit Whistle Punks axe throwing or Odean cinema…

Use sunscream

Keep skin protected and use sunscreen to avoid burning.

Look after your neighbour

Check in with anyone you know who may isolated or find it hard to look after themselves.

Know where to get help

999 is for an emergency and 111 in a non-emergency. Health and practical advice on the heatwave is here

Don’ts during the heatwave

Don’t work outside between 12 noon and 3 pm

This is typically the hottest period of the day

Don’t leave children or pets in parked vehicles

The temperature inside a parked vehicle can rapidly rise to a dangerous level and there isn’t as much oxygen

Don’t drink too much alcohol

Booze, although refreshing, rapidly dehydrates you.

Don’t go wild swimming without an adult

It’s not safe to swim where there is no lifeguard on duty.

Don’t don’t cool off in the quays

Cold water shock can kill you and it’s not set up to safely go swimming.

Councillor Thomas Robinson, Executive Member for Healthy Manchester and Social Care at Manchester City Council, said: “We know Manchester is well known for its strong community spirit – and that will be vital over the next two days. Please do check if you think someone could be facing difficulty in the heat and needs some extra support to stay safe and well.”

In addition, in Manchester, these are some of the key contact telephone numbers at the Council:

Social care – to report abuse, neglect, or a vulnerable person at risk ring 0161 234 5001

Homelessness – if you have nowhere to stay at night ring 0161 234 5001

Civil Emergency – to report an incident that puts people in immediate danger, like a bridge or building collapsing ring 0161 223 7222.