If you spot any of these 6 symptoms in hot weather call 999 'immediately'

Everyone is being urged to take care in hot weather and heatwave conditions today as the UK sizzles in the baking sunshine.

And if you spot any of these six symptoms, you should call 999 immediately because they could be dangerous and potentially fatal signs of heat stroke.

Temperatures are expected to rise as high as 31C today after hitting 29.4C on Tuesday, with more hot weather on the cards for July.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging people to be vigilant against three key health problems in this hot weather: heat exhaustion, dehydration and most dangerously, heatstroke.

Common symptoms of heat exhaustion include:

• tiredness

• weakness

• feeling faint

• headache

• muscle cramps

• feeling or being sick

• heavy sweating

• intense thirst

But heatstroke is more dangerous and potentially fatal. Heatstroke is where the body is no longer able to cool down and the body temperature becomes dangerously high.

Six common symptoms of heatstroke include:

• confusion

• lack of co-ordination

• fast heartbeat

• fast breathing or shortness of breath

• hot skin that is not sweating

• seizures

The UKHSA adds: “Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you think someone has heatstroke you should dial 999 and then try to cool them down.

“Heat exhaustion occurs when the body overheats and cannot cool down. Heat exhaustion does not usually need emergency medical attention if you cool down within 30 minutes. If you do not take action to cool down, heat exhaustion can lead to heatstroke.”

Everyone is being urged to stay hydrated to avoid dehydration too.

The UKHSA adds: “Drink fluids regularly throughout the day especially if you are physically active. You should drink enough that your pee is a pale straw colour.

“Water and diluted squash or lower fat milks are good choices. Fruit juice, smoothies and soft drinks can be high in sugar which dehydrates the body. Limit the amount of fruit juice or smoothies that you drink, and swap sugary soft drinks for diet, sugar-free or no added sugar varieties.

“If you are going out, take a refillable bottle filled with water. Take extra water for journeys on public transport or by car.

“Alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body, so it is a good idea to choose alcohol-free options, or alternate alcoholic drinks with a glass of water.

“If you are fasting during a heatwave, it is important to drink enough to adequately hydrate before you fast and follow the guidance on keeping cool and preventing dehydration. People with underlying health conditions should seek medical advice before fasting.”