Claire Brown – Tuesday 23rd June 2026 – 2.15pm.
West Midlands Ambulance Service is urging people to take the dangers of extreme heat seriously after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued a rare Red Heat-Health Alert for the region.
The alert, which is in place from 1am on Wednesday 24th June until 11pm on Thursday 25th June, is the highest level of warning and means that the hot weather is likely to have significant impacts across health and social care services, with risks extending beyond those most vulnerable to heat.
While many people welcome warm summer weather, prolonged periods of extreme heat can quickly become dangerous, leading to dehydration, heat exhaustion, heatstroke and worsening existing health conditions.
Ben Pallante, HART & Special Operations Manager, said: “People often underestimate just how dangerous hot weather can be. Every year, we see patients become seriously unwell because they have not recognised the warning signs of heat-related illness. This is not simply about feeling uncomfortable. Extreme heat can be life-threatening, particularly for older people, young children, those with underlying health conditions and anyone spending long periods outdoors.
“When temperatures rise, ambulance services often see an increase in demand as more people call 999 needing urgent medical help. Many of these incidents are preventable. We are increasing operational resources and putting additional staff on shift to help manage any increase in demand over the coming days, but we are asking everyone to play their part by taking simple steps to protect themselves and those around them.”
The ambulance service is also warning people not to take unnecessary risks around rivers, lakes, reservoirs and canals during the hot weather. Ben added: “Open water may look like the perfect place to cool down during a heatwave, but it can be deadly. The water is often much colder than people expect, hidden hazards may lie beneath the surface and strong currents can quickly overwhelm even confident swimmers. I’d urge you to never enter open water alone and only swim at locations where a lifeguard is present.
“We have responded to more than 50 drowning incidents since 1st May 2026, three of which were tragically fatal. Every one of these incidents has had devastating consequences for families, friends and communities. Parents, teachers and carers should have open and honest conversations with children and teenagers about water safety. A moment’s decision can have lifelong consequences.”
The ambulance service is encouraging the public to follow this heatwave checklist:
- Drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day. Avoid excessive alcohol and limit caffeine.
- Keep your skin cool using water, damp cloths or cool showers.
- Wear sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors.
- Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing such as cotton or linen.
- Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest parts of the day.
- Stay out of direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm whenever possible.
- Keep homes cool by closing blinds, curtains and windows during the day and opening windows overnight when temperatures fall.
- Check regularly on elderly relatives, vulnerable neighbours and anyone living alone.
- Never enter open water such as lakes and rivers unless there’s a lifeguard present.
Further advice on staying safe during hot weather and around open water can be found on our website www.wmas.nhs.uk.
ENDS