The borough’s residents are being urged to be ‘good neighbours’ following the Met Office forecast of extremely hot temperatures.

Weather experts issued a level 3 heatwave alert for London, which could mean potential health issues, especially for the elderly and those less able to look after themselves.

Newham Council is reminding people to take precautions and to watch out for vulnerable residents. Councillor Clive Furness, executive member for health, said: “It’s wonderful to see the sun but we all need to be sensible. It is important to follow the health messages on how to enjoy the sun safely. by staying cool, drinking lots of cold fluids and checking on those you know are at risk.

“Slapping on high-protection sun cream and drinking plenty of water is obvious, but there are also other precautions we can take, including looking out for older or vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours to make sure they are keeping cool. Being a good neighbour in hot weather can make all the difference.”

Key public health messages for staying safe include:

*If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat

*Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes

*Drink plenty of water

*If you have a health problem, keep medicines below 25 °C or in the refrigerator

*Look out for others, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children and babies and those with serious illnesses

*Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially children or animals.

*It can also get uncomfortably hot indoors too. Try to keep your bedroom and living area cool by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening your windows at cooler times of the day and overnight when safe to do so.

*Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat.

Council safeguarding staff in the community will be checking on vulnerable patients and sharing the sun safety messages.

For more information about sun safety tips from the NHS or Public Health England, visit: www.hpa.org.uk or www.nhs.uk