Weather warnings have been issued over the scorching weather continues.

With the 30°c temperatures setting in for most of this week, health bosses are sending out alerts to help people stay cool.

The Met Office has issued a Level 3 Heatwave Alert for the south east region for between 9am yesterday and 9am on Thursday June 22.

During a heatwave there are several groups of people who are at higher risk of suffering from severe health effects.

These include babies and young children, pensioners, people with pre-existing medical conditions such as heart conditions, diabetes, respiratory or renal problem, Parkinson’s disease or severe mental illness.

St John Ambulance is issuing some simple, but life saving first aid tips to keep people safe in the sun.

The most common conditions St John Ambulance first aiders treat at events are fainting, sunburn and dehydration.

Elizabeth Harper, regional director, said: “Extreme heat can be dangerous, particularly for the very young and old, but by being prepared you can spot the early warning signs and potentially be the difference between life and death in an emergency.

“Heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most serious problems that can develop when the mercury soars so it’s essential that people can spot the signs, such as headache and dizziness, and get them somewhere cool and rehydrated as soon as possible.”

Advice to help people stay well during hot weather:

• Keep out of the sun between 11am and 3pm;

• If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat and light scarf;

• Avoid extreme physical exertion;

• Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes

Cool yourself down:

• Have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks

• Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content

• Take a cool shower, bath or body wash

• Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck

Keep your environment cool:

• Keeping your living space cool is especially important for infants, the elderly or those with chronic health conditions or who can’t look after themselves

• Place a thermometer in your main living room and bedroom to keep a check on the temperature

• Keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open windows at night when the temperature has dropped.