After scorching weather today and more forecast for tomorrow, Public Health England and St John Ambulance have been issuing advice on how to cope with the heatwave.

Mike Wade, Deputy Director of Health Protection for Public Health England South West said: ’Much of the advice on beating the heat is common sense and for most people there’s nothing to really worry about.

’But for some people, such as older people, those with underlying health conditions and those with young children, summer heat can bring real health risks.

’This summer we’re urging people to keep an eye on those at-risk and if you’re able, offer help to stay cool and hydrated. This is a good time, before the warmer weather arrives, to think about who you may be able to assist and what you may be able to do – there’s lots of guidance on the NHS Choices and more detail in the Heatwave Plan for England.’

The Met Office declared a Level 2 heat-health alert this morning (Monday 18 July) that means that there is a high chance that temperatures will hit certain thresholds for two days and the intervening night.

Paul Gundersen, Chief Operational Meteorologist at the Met Office said: ’Through tomorrow temperatures rise again as very warm air pushes north from across the Continent. This will lead to widespread hot conditions, with increasing humidity as well.

’The very warm and humid weather will continue through Tuesday evening and much of Wednesday leading to a hot and humid night. Meanwhile, intense thunderstorms may develop, these most likely across northern England.

’On Wednesday fresher conditions gradually arrive from the west across England, clearing away the thunderstorms eastwards.’

When the temperature rises, the most common conditions St John Ambulance first aiders treat people for at events are cramp, fainting, sunburn and dehydration.

The charity’s advice is to apply sun cream, cover up and stay hydrated, as you are then more likely to enjoy the high temperatures without incident.

To keep cool in the heat and stay safe, download the free St John Ambulance First Aid app for your iPhone or Android which gives advice on sunburn and heat stroke, as well as life-saving information.

You can also watch St John Ambulance’s videos on how to treat sunburn https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u0sLzfq_w9s