THE Met Office has issued its first-ever red heat warning for the Black Country as temperatures are set to reach the mid-30s.

An extreme heat warning has been issued for Monday, July 18 and Tuesday, July 19 as forecasters predict record-breaking temperatures.

The Met office said nights are likely to also be exceptionally warm which could lead to widespread impacts on people and infrastructure.

It is advised that substantial changes in working practices and daily routines should be implemented and there is a high risk of failing heat-sensitive systems and equipment.

Stay out of the sun

Councillor Ian Bevan, cabinet member for public health at Dudley Council, said: "With the heatwave ongoing, we are asking people to enjoy the warm weather responsibly and keep an eye on elderly relatives and neighbours as older people are more susceptible to dehydration.

"Babies and young children should be kept out of the midday sun, and we urge all residents to take protection from the sun by seeking shade, wearing sunscreen and wearing a hat and sunglasses.

"We are also reminding people that swimming outdoors can be dangerous, please avoid places that could be unsafe and remember the best places to have a cool down splash are our lifeguarded leisure centres."

Rise in 999 calls

West Midlands Ambulance Service has already seen a rise in the number of heat-related calls to both the 999 and 111 services with calls about sunburn, heat stroke, BBQ burns, dehydration, breathing difficulties and from people enjoying the outdoors who are ill-prepared.

The service said It is vital that people take on board the warning so that preventable situations don’t end up resulting in people needing to access help from the NHS.

Emergency Services Operations Delivery Director, Nathan Hudson, said: “Almost everyone enjoys a sunny day, but the difference this time is that temperatures have the potential to reach levels never before seen in the West Midlands.

“Heat can cause some very serious health implications if we don’t treat it with respect, particularly for the very young and elderly, but it can affect people of all ages.

“Dehydration is one of the biggest risks – it happens when you lose more fluid than you take in.  We all need to drink enough when it’s hot; water and fruit juices are much better than alcohol, which is a diuretic and will speed up dehydration.”