A local mother contacted the website to express her concern at the number of kids seen with no sun-hats on – and she is not alone.

As more hot air pushes north from France and Spain, an amber Level Three Government heat-health warning – one tier below a level four national emergency – has been issued. Lasting until Wednesday, the notice orders community groups to “activate community emergency plans”, and warns hospitals to be on guard. Health staff are also compelled to make daily contact with the ill, vulnerable and elderly.

“You should be aware of the signs and symptoms to help you reduce the risk of fainting. In this hot and sunny weather, one such step is to make sure you keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water or soft drinks, and avoiding alcohol and caffeine.”

Unusual levels of UV are also being recorded in the UK at the moment – with the strength of the UV in some spots being as high as that in Cyprus and Gibraltar.

The guidelines gives the following advice:

• Look out for others, especially older people, young children and babies and those with underlying health conditions
• Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors
• Drink plenty of water as sugary, alcoholic and caffeinated drinks can make you more dehydrated
• Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
• Try to keep out of the sun between 11 am to 3 pm
• Take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into the water to cool down
• Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat, if you have to go out in the heat
• Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day
• Wear light, loose fitting cotton clothes
• Make sure you take water with you, if you are traveling.