Police have seen an increase in calls related to heat exhaustion in Darwen, as the UK Health Security Agency issue a heat-health alert.

Officers said they have seen a surge in calls from the Darwen area, related to  heat exhaustion, fainting and dizziness.

Police say they often respond to these calls, despite them being medical issues, due to demand and also to safeguard.

Officers have urged callers to report issues by calling 101 or contacting them online, unless they are emergencies.

A police spokesperson said: “As the weather improves and we start to see summer finally approaching, the demand for emergency services increases throughout the country. 

 “Please take the time to utilise all available advice on the NHS website to keep yourself safe in the hot weather. 

“We have already seen an increase in calls in the Darwen area to report heat exhaustion, fainting and dizziness. 

 “Although these are usually medical issues, the police often respond due to demand and to safeguard. 

 “Please help the constabulary by keeping yourself safe and reporting issues via 101 or online, unless they are emergencies.”

A yellow heat-health alert was issued today. It is in force until Thursday, June 27, and covers all of the north west. 

Minor impacts are reported as 'probable' across the health and social care sector this week, including 'increased use of healthcare services by the vulnerable population'.

Impacts also include an 'increase in risk of mortality amongst vulnerable individuals and increased potential for indoor environments to become very warm'.

In Blackburn, the Met Office predicts temperature highs of 25C from today through until Thursday, before falling into the high teens at the weekend.

UV levels and pollen levels are also set to remain high all week, meaning sun cream and antihistamines for hayfever sufferers are a must.

How to stay cool in hot weather

The NHS has issued some advice about keeping cool in hot weather.

It suggests to:

·       Keep out of the heat if you can. If you have to go outside, stay in the shade especially between 11am and 3pm, wear sunscreen, a hat and light clothes, and avoid exercise or activity that makes you hotter.

·       Cool yourself down. Have cold food and drinks, avoid alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks, and have a cool shower or put cool water on your skin or clothes.

·       Keep your living space cool. Close windows during the day and open them at night when the temperature outside has gone down. Electric fans can help if the temperature is below 35 degrees. Check the temperature of rooms, especially where people at higher risk live and sleep.