As we experience another extreme heat warning across the county, please take some practical steps before you head out and about in Kent over the next few days.
That’s the message from the Kent Resilience Forum (KRF), a partnership of emergency services, organisations and agencies who work together to plan and prepare for a multitude of issues that can affect our county.
It is potentially going to be busy on the roads as people enjoy the hot weather. There is also industrial action on the trains set for Saturday, which means there will be very limited services on routes through Kent.
Wherever you are going and whatever you are doing – be it heading off to Europe or enjoying your days off at one of Kent’s many attractions – allow extra time for your journey, and have water, snacks and essential supplies like medications on board in case of any delays.
Stephanie Holt-Castle, KRF’s Strategic Lead, said: “We want people to make the very most of the next few days so ask that you take some simple steps to ensure your journeys and days out are as safe and as comfortable as possible.
“We are constantly monitoring the situation on the county’s roads and will deploy traffic management systems if the pressure begins to build on the network. It has been a steady couple of weeks and that is what we are continuing to aim for.
“Stay up-to-date with travel information and heed the advice from all the emergency service partners about safety in the sun and at the beach or near any waterways. Please be prepared if you are moving around Kent, including having water and essential supplies with you in case of delays.”
Stay safe and well as temperatures rise with this advice:
For where to find the latest traffic updates in Kent, and for general safe travel tips #EverySingleJourney visit: Check before you travel – Kent County Council
During this hot weather, people are asked to check in on their vulnerable friends, family and neighbours who might need and appreciate some additional support to look after themselves. Further Keep Cool in Kent information is available here
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
Pop on some sun cream before you leave home as those rays will reach you in the car.
Please don’t use the roadways as a litter bin – not good for wildlife and discarded glass combined with blazing sun helps cause fires. Take litter with you. Also, think twice about disposable barbecues in tinder-dry areas.
Please check your tyre tread and tyre pressures – statistically the biggest cause of breakdowns.
Should you become unwell, unless it is an emergency, please remember to use 111 as your first point of contact for medical support. By phoning 111 or visiting 111.nhs.uk, you will be directed to the right service for you. For more advice, visit www.stopthinkchoose.co.uk to find local services, such as pharmacies and urgent treatment centres.
HM Coastguard and the RNLI have useful advice on keeping yourself and your family safe at the beach here, including the Float to Live campaign and the dangers of cold water shock.
Editor’s notes:
For further information about Operation Brock go to: nationalhighways.co.uk/travel-updates/operation-brock
For more details about the Kent Resilience Forum partnership see the Kent Prepared website
For more information, email jo.godden@kent.gov.uk