Think of yourself and others in hot weather

With another bout of sustained hot weather, Staffordshire residents are being urged to stay cool and safe, and to think of others.

Livestock owners are also being reminded of the effects on animals and to ensure they have plenty of water and ventilation.

Victoria Wilson, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Communities and Culture, said: “Be sensible during the hottest times of the day, avoid any temptation to cool off in unsupervised open water and please do check on older relatives, friends and neighbours, who may be struggling.”

Even on the hottest days, the temperature of reservoirs, lakes and large bodies of open water stays around 2C. This can cause cold water shock, even for strong swimmers, which can lead to a sudden loss of consciousness.

Visitors to the county council’s country parks should not smoke in high-risk areas with grassland and heathland both extremely dry. No barbecues or fires are allowed at any time.

Staffordshire County Council’s trading standards animal health team is also issuing a reminder to animal owners to carry out extra checks on their livestock to ensure they are regularly inspected and that they have access to shade and water.

Victoria Wilson added: “Our trading standards team wants to ensure livestock owners are keeping their animals safe, well ventilated and with plenty of water, until the hot weather breaks next week.”

Where farmed animals are kept, plans should be put in place for what to do if water supplies are interrupted and the need to identify alternative water sources for emergency situations. On average livestock will need anything between six to 52 litres of water a day each depending on the type of animals kept.

Farmers are also reminded that if they are moving livestock, this should be done in the cooler parts of the day. Additional measures, such reducing the number of animals being transported to increase space allowance and ventilation going through the vehicle will help avoid animals becoming distressed.

Water and electrolytes should be offered more frequently and there should be emergency contingency plans in place for every journey as a delay which would be relatively insignificant under normal conditions can quickly become critical in extreme temperatures.

Anyone with any concerns with regards the health or wellbeing of farmed livestock in Staffordshire, they are advised to contact the animal health team on 01785 277875 or email the team at animal.health@staffordshire.gov.uk