HEALTH advice has been issued ahead of tomorrow’s expected record-breaking temperatures.

Southend is expected to bask in 28C heat tomorrow, with the Essex Weather Centre saying many districts will experience their highest temperatures since July 2006.

However, the Met Office has forecast potential heatwave conditions and declared a level 2 heat health alert, prompting the council has issued advice on how to stay safe in the heat.

Health councillor James Moyies said: “I want all residents and visitors to the town to enjoy themselves and make full use of our excellent amenities.

“I would however encourage people to take simple precautions to avoid the negative effects of heat.

“Stay hydrated and keep a watchful eye on vulnerable older people, children and babies during the forecast hot weather.”

The advice is as follows;

Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm - if you have to go out in the heat, walk or sit in the shade.

Apply sunscreen of at least Sun Protection Factor 15 with UVA protection - remember to reapply this every two hours and after swimming.

Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and choose brands with CE and British Standards mark.

Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes, a hat and light scarf.

Drink lots of cool drinks, avoid excess alcohol, drinks containing caffeine and hot drinks.

Keep an eye on isolated, elderly, ill or very young people. High temperatures are more dangerous for people with heart or breathing problems. Make sure they are able to stay cool.

Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.

Take extra care if you have fair skin, freckle easily or have suffered sunburn before.

Try to keep bedroom and living spaces cool, by closing the curtains on windows that receive the sun and opening your windows at cooler times of the day when you can.

Turn off non-essential lights and electrical items as these generate heat.