Safety warnings issued for South West heatwave

People have been advised to take extra care and beware of adjustments to services

Safety warnings have been issued for Devon and Cornwall as people are advised to take extra care and beware of adjustments to services in heatwave conditions.

An amber heat health alert came into effect at 12:00 BST and was expected to remain in place until 09:00 BST on Monday.

Temperatures have hit 27C in Bude, 25C in Newquay and 24C in Plymouth since the start of the day.

On Friday the mercury was expected to reach 25C in Plymouth, 26C in Barnstaple and 26C in Bude, according to BBC Weather.

The RSPCA says dog owners should be aware of their pets in the heat

East Devon District Council said bin crews would start collections at 06:00 BST during the heatwave period so rounds could be completed "in the cooler parts of the day".

There have also been a number of safety warnings issued across the region.

The RNLI said it was expecting an increase in people visiting beaches in Devon and Cornwall and urged water users to visit a lifeguarded beach.

Steve Instance, RNLI water safety lead for the South West said people should remember the advice to float if in trouble in the water.

He said: "Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged. Relax and try to breathe normally."

The RNLI has issued a safety warning to anyone planning to head to the region's coast over weekend

The RSPCA has also urged dog owners not to walk their pets in the heat, as it can lead to heatstroke.

"If [the ground] is too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws," a spokesperson for the charity said.

"Avoid walking during the day - stick to early mornings or late evenings, make sure they have plenty of cool water and shade."

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service advised people to pack picnics instead of disposable barbecues to cut the risk of wildfires.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service advised people to pack picnics instead of disposable barbecues to cut the risk of wildfires

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said while many people enjoyed the warm weather, it could cause some people to become unwell.

Sarah Bird, from the UKHSA, said it was about taking "sensible precautions" and "looking out for people who might be more vulnerable".

She added: "It's about simple steps such as if you're indoors, keeping the curtains closed. Staying hydrated is really important and if you're outdoors and planning ahead, protecting yourself from the sun especially in the hottest parts of the day."