By Lauren Tilley

  TEMPERATURES in parts of Gwent are expected to hit 28C today, making it hotter than Barcelona, as the county basks in the first heatwave of the summer.

While for many this is a cause of celebration, and as our pictures show a way of people to get out and enjoy the good weather, we do also need to take care.

The risks of heat exhaustion, heat stroke and sunburn become very real threats when the weather is warm.

“We know that the weather is forecast to be very hot over the next few days, and we want people to be careful that they don’t ruin their enjoyment of the sun by becoming unwell as a result of the outside temperatures,” said Huw Brunt, consultant in environmental health protection for Public Health Wales.

“By taking some simple steps to protect themselves and others, everyone can enjoy the sunshine while staying safe and well.”

People planning to be outside when the weather is hot are advised to:

• Use sunscreen or sun block to reduce the risk of sunburn

• Cover up with loose fitting clothes

• Wear a hat to protect the head and sunglasses to protect the eyes

• Drink plenty of water

• Avoid direct sunlight between 12pm and 3pm (the hottest part of the day)

Elderly people and children are especially vulnerable to the heat, and so should take extra precautions.

Along with high temperatures, Gwent will have very high pollen levels for the rest of the week. This can have an effect on hay fever sufferers.

“Most people wait until symptoms start before they begin treatment, but the nasal spray needs to be started at least two weeks before symptoms appear, so that the medication is already in your system when pollen triggers your hay fever," said Maureen Jenkins, Clinical Director of Allergy UK. "Take your antihistamine as soon as your symptoms start."

Steps can also be taken at home to lessen the effects of hay fever.

“Pollen is sticky and may be in your hair,” said Maureen. “It can then transfer to your pillow and affect you during the night. If you’ve been out in the evening, wash your hair and change your clothes before going into the bedroom."

Welsh Water is reminding people of the dangers of swimming in reservoirs and open water as the temperatures rise.

Welsh Water owns and maintains more than 80 reservoirs across Wales and although visitors are welcomed to these recreational sites, they should not swim in the reservoirs as it is extremely dangerous and can prove fatal.

Director of Water Services, Ian Christie said: “Our reservoirs are great places to visit to enjoy the scenery or take a walk but all too often people are tempted to risk taking a swim which can lead to tragic consequences. While reservoirs might seem like a great place to cool off, they are full of hidden dangers with freezing cold water and strong currents."

Animals are also affected by the hot weather. The RSPCA has advised owners to never leave a dog alone in a car on a warm day, even if it is parked in the shade or the windows are down.

They warn that a car can become as hot as an oven very quickly – even when it is 22°C outside, the inside of a car can reach an unbearable 47°C within the hour.

Owners are advised to ensure pets have access to shade and fresh drinking water, as well as not to over-exercise dogs in the heat.