Members of the public are being encouraged to enjoy the warm weather safely, with temperatures in Glasgow set to remain high over the coming days.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) is urging people to take simple steps to look after themselves and their families in the sun and warm conditions, helping to avoid illness or injury.
During warmer weather, common issues can include sunburn, heat exhaustion, dehydration, food poisoning, and bites and stings. Many of these can be prevented with a little extra care. NHSGGC is advising people to:
- Stay safe in the sun – Wear high-factor sunscreen, cover up with suitable clothing – and a hat, stay hydrated, and spend time in the shade where possible.
- Stay hydrated – make sure your drink additional water as your body need much more fluid to cope with the heat
- Take care with food – When barbecuing, ensure food is cooked thoroughly and evenly, and keep raw and cooked foods separate.
- Be prepared at home – Keep a supply of over-the-counter medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, treatments for bites and stings, and antihistamines for allergies.
- Have basic first aid supplies – A simple first aid kit, including plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes, along with an ice pack, can help manage minor injuries such as cuts, bruises, sprains and strains.
If you do feel unwell or have a minor injury, NHSGGC is reminding people to seek the right care in the right place.
People are encouraged to treat themselves at home using trusted information such as the NHS Inform website and the NHS 24 Online App. Information on some common injuries and illnesses and how to treat them can also be found on the NHSGGC website: How to manage some common Injuries and Illnesses – NHSGGC.
Due to the bank holiday (Monday 25 May), GP practices are closed, and some community pharmacies may have reduced opening hours or be closed: Pharmacy Opening Hours – End of May Bank Holiday – NHSGGC.
Anyone who needs urgent medical care that cannot wait until their GP reopens should contact NHS 24 by calling 111. The GP Out of Hours service is available by appointment only, and patients must call 111 in the first instance to be assessed and directed to the most appropriate care.
If your condition is very urgent or life-threatening, always call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
More information on accessing the right care is available here: Right Care, Right Place – NHSGGC
Dr John O’Dowd, Interim Director of Public Health for NHSGGC, said: “The warm weather and bank holiday are a great opportunity to spend time outdoors and enjoy time with family and friends.
“We want everyone to enjoy this safely by taking simple steps such as protecting themselves in the sun, staying hydrated and preparing food properly. These small actions can help prevent common illnesses and injuries at this time of year.
“By thinking ABC before attending A&E, you can make sure you are getting the right care in the right place, while also helping to protect services for those who need them most.”
Fraser McJannett, Director of Primary Care and GP Out of Hours for NHSGGC, said: “With GP practices closed today for the bank holiday and some pharmacies closed or operating reduced hours, it’s important people know how to access care if they need it.
“If you need care that can’t be treated at home and can’t wait until your GP reopens, call NHS 24 on 111. The GP Out of Hours service is appointment only, and calling 111 first ensures you are directed to the right care quickly.”
Accessing the right care is as easy as ABC:
Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, go to NHS Informor download theNHS24 app.
Be aware: There is help for many conditions right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services.
Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need. Unless it’s an emergency, think ABC before going to A&E.
