As temperatures in Newcastle are forecast to approach 30°C this week, visitors to The Hoppings, Europe's largest fairground, are being urged to take precautions against the heat. A yellow health alert has been issued for the North East, highlighting the need for sun safety and hydration.
Sun Protection Essentials
With high UV indexes expected over the next week, proper sun safety is vital. Sunburns are a leading cause of melanoma and skin cancer, so applying sun cream is a must. At least factor 30 protection is recommended, with higher factors advised for children and teens. Commonly missed areas such as the back of the neck, hairline, and shoulders should not be forgotten.
Stay Hydrated
In warm weather, increased sweating requires extra effort to stay hydrated. Drinking water is the best option, as alcohol can worsen dehydration. All food and drink stands at The Hoppings sell water, but visitors can also bring their own bottles to save money.
Know Your Limits and Seek Help
There are few shaded seating areas at the fairground, but paramedics and first-aid-trained workers are on site all day. If you feel unwell, find a staff member for assistance. According to the NHS, symptoms of heat exhaustion include tiredness, dizziness, headache, nausea, excessive sweating, pale clammy skin, cramps, high temperature, thirst, and irritability. Dehydration symptoms include thirst, headache, light-headedness, dark urine, less frequent urination, dizziness, tiredness, dry mouth, lips, and tongue, and sunken eyes.
For parents, signs of dehydration in a baby include a sunken soft spot on the head, sunken eyes, few or no tears, fewer wet nappies, and drowsiness or irritability. While the risk of a medical incident is low, it is not impossible. Pack a fan, sun cream, and a water bottle for your day at The Hoppings.
