Hertfordshire residents are being advised by the county council to take a few precautions to keep themselves healthy and safe in the current period of hot weather.

The Met Office has issued a level two heatwave warning for this week, with a maximum temperature expected on Wednesday.

Level two means there is a 60 per cent risk of a heatwave in the next two to three days.

Teresa Heritage, cabinet member for public health, said: “I’m sure that many of us are enjoying this warm, dry spell of weather but we need to be cautious to protect ourselves and our more vulnerable family, friends and neighbours from the sun and high temperatures and not underestimate the dangers of overheating.”

Residents are advised to follow a few simple precautions:

• Stay out of direct sun between 11am and 3pm.

• Wear loose-fitting clothes and a hat; apply sunscreen and walk in the shade.

• Have plenty of cold drinks and keep cool with cold showers or baths if necessary, cold foods and by avoiding extreme activity.

• Keep homes cool as best you can, perhaps by keeping the curtains drawn on very hot days, and well ventilated.

• Remember some medicines need to be kept cool - check the instructions on the packet.

• Babies, children and older people (and pets) should not be left in stationary cars.

• If you feel unusually unwell consult your doctor if symptoms (such as headache, intense thirst, dizziness or muscular spasms) persist.