23The Met Office have issued a level 2 heatwave warning this week as temperatures are expected to rise up to 35C degrees in some parts of the country. Heatwave conditions are set to build from 12noon on Tuesday, June 30 to Wednesday July 1, as the hottest day of the year so far.

Mayor John Biggs said: “With summer season now in full swing, the continuous hot weather is a good reminder to be practicing safe sun sense.”

Public health officials are encouraging residents to be mindful when in the sun and to take special care of the very young, the very old, and people with long-term health conditions.

Dr Somen Banerjee, Tower Hamlets Council’s director of public health said: “It’s important to be safe when spending time outdoors, but it can also get very hot indoors. If you have small children, please be mindful of keeping them away from open windows, especially if you live in multi-storey flats, as babies and children can climb out.”

Some tips for staying cool:

• Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm
• Wear UV sunglasses, preferably wraparound, to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection, wear a hat and light scarf. Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes. This should minimise the risk of sunburn.
• Drink lots of cool drinks
• Look out for others especially vulnerable groups such as the older people, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals

Muslims observing Ramadan are advised to ensure they balance food and fluid intake between fasts and especially to drink enough water.

Top tips for Ramadan fasting:
•    If you start to feel unwell, disoriented or confused, or collapse or faint, advice is to stop fasting and have a drink of water or other fluid. This is especially important for older adults, those with poorly controlled medical conditions such as low/high blood pressure, diabetes and those who are receiving dialysis treatment
•    The Muslim Council of Britain has confirmed that breaking fast in such conditions is allowable under Islamic law. Also make sure to check on others in the community who may be at greater risk