Stay safe in the sun as temperatures set to soar

A WEATHER advisory has been issued for the coming days, with temperatures expected to reach the high 20s.

Met Eireann has forecast high temperatures on Sunday, Monday and Tuesday, with a number of organisations issuing safety advice to members of the public.

People are encouraged to take care in the heat and the sun, and to be mindful of the risks associated with high temperatures.

Th HSE has provided tips on keeping cool in above normal daytime temperatures, protecting your skin and avoiding dehydration.

Slip on clothing – cover skin as much as possible, wear long sleeves.

Slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen, at least 30+ for adults and 50+ for children, with high UVA protection and water resistant.

Slap on a wide-brimmed hat – protect your face, ears and neck

Seek shade – especially between 11am and 3pm.

Slide on sunglasses

More tips and information on keeping your skin safe can be found on the HSE’s website HERE.

It’s also important to get enough water into your system, keep your home cool and avoid over exposure to the sun over long periods of time.

Information on how to keep yourself and your family hydrated is available on the HSE’s website HERE.

Road Safety

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has also issued a safety notice, reminding drivers to be aware of sun glare.

Sun glare can result in drivers being temporarily dazzled or blinded by the intensity and brightness of the sun.

Drivers can reduce the risk of sun glare and of being dazzled by wearing sun glasses.

Ensure your windscreen is clear of grease or grime inside and out, and make sure there’s plenty of window washer.

Be prepared for both short trips and journeys, and ensure you have adequate supplies of water in the event of road or traffic delays. Children and pets are particularly at risk while travelling during hot spells.

Watch out for vulnerable road users, pedestrians, cyclists, horse riders and motorcyclists, and slow down and allow extra space when passing.

More information on the RSA’s Twitter and Facebook.

Water safety 

Warnings have been issued for vigilance around water, and the importance of swimming in safe places.

Water Safety Ireland has issued advice on Twitter to help swimmers stay safe, full details on the Water Safety Ireland website HERE. 

Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) has encouraged families to make water safety part of their conversations while the ESB is urging people to obey the ‘no swimming, no paddling, no inflatables’ warning signs at reservoirs.

Keeping pets cool and hydrated 

According to the Irish Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ISPCA) it is important to ensure that pets have plenty of fresh, clean drinking water and access to shade from heat.

The ISPCA has also reminded people to never leave pets alone in a parked vehicle.

Tips and advice on caring for your pet in hot weather HERE.

Keep up-to-date on the weather forecast over the coming days by following Met Eireann on Twitter and Facebook.