SOMERSET County Council is asking neighbours, friends and relatives to keep an eye out for anyone who may be struggling to cope in the sustained heat and might need help maintaining their health and well-being.

Cabinet member for health and well-being Cllr Christine Lawrence said: “Intense heat can be as perilous to health as the cold, with the effects of dehydration or heatstroke being severe and the symptoms often coming on very quickly.

“Making sure someone is keeping their home cool, drinking plenty of water and not having to do any strenuous activity in the heat will go a long way to keeping them healthy.”

People with heart or respiratory problems are particularly at risk. Medical help should be sought for prolonged symptoms such as dizziness, breathlessness, confusion and cramps.

If temperatures reach a specified level the council will put into action its Heatwave Plan.

If you are concerned about someone’s health and well-being because of the heat call the NHS 111 service. If someone is suffering heatstroke it is a medical emergency and an ambulance should be called.