Suffolk hospitals on heat alert

HOSPITAL staff in Suffolk were put on alert today as soaring temperatures were set to break all records.Emergency plans kicked into action in case there was a sudden influx of patients made ill by the heat – with doctors and nurses on the lookout for tell-tale signs of dehydration, breathing problems and sunstroke.

By Richard Cornwell

HOSPITAL staff in Suffolk were put on alert today as soaring temperatures were set to break all records.

Emergency plans kicked into action in case there was a sudden influx of patients made ill by the heat – with doctors and nurses on the lookout for tell-tale signs of dehydration, breathing problems and sunstroke.

With weathermen forecasting temperatures of more than 30C (86F), the county was expected to be hotter than popular summer holiday destinations such as the Canary Islands and the Caribbean.

It meant trains were on a go-slow for fear of rail lines buckling in the heat, road surfaces could melt and people were flocking to the coast to cool off.

However, health chiefs are concerned the sudden temperature rise could take its toll on vulnerable people – especially children and the elderly – and were warning people to keep out of the sun during the hottest part of the day, cover up with sunscreen, wear a hat and drink plenty of water.

Police say they are also keeping a weather eye as tempers get frayed in the heat.

HEATWAVE STORIES AND PICTURES IN TONIGHT'S EVENING STAR