Stay safe advice issued as temperatures forecast to rise

With hot weather forecast to hit Bridgend County Borough over the spring bank holiday weekend, residents and visitors are urged to remember a few simple rules that will help them keep safe and well.

•    Stay hydrated: Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks as they can cause dehydration.

•    Sun protection: Use at least SPF 30 sunscreen, wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing, and wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

•    Vulnerable groups: Remember to make sure elderly people, young children and people with underlying health conditions stay cool and hydrated.

•    Spot the signs: Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If someone shows signs of confusion, stops sweating or has a dangerously high body temperature, call 999.

•    Plan outdoor activities: Plan activities such as walks, exercise, gardening etc. for earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon and evening.

•    Water safety: Be mindful of cold water shock and drowning risks.

•    Pets: Ensure pets have fresh water, are not out for long periods or left inside stationary cars.

If visiting the coast, remember that RLNI lifeguard patrols will be in place each day at Rest Bay, Coney Beach, Sandy Bay and Trecco Bay. Please swim and bodyboard between red and yellow flags, and surf or use kayaks and paddleboards between black and white flags. 

Water bikes such as Jet Skis can be used in the Newton Bay area, but please remain aware of other water users. Anyone who gets into difficulties while swimming should lie on their back in the ‘Float To Live’ position, relax, and resist the urge to thrash about. 

Please avoid include swimming across the access channel of Porthcawl Marina, and diving or jumping from the iconic breakwater as the water depth can vary depending upon the tide. If you spot a swimmer in trouble, call 999 or 112 in an emergency and ask for the Coastguard – more details are available at the RNLI website.

Dogs are are welcome all year round at Newton Beach, Pink Bay and Sker Beach, but are not allowed on Rest Bay, Town Beach, Coney Beach and Trecco Bay until after 30 September. With more than 200 litter bins located throughout the town, please remember to always bag dog waste, and to dispose of it responsibly.

Please think twice before lighting up a disposable barbeque at the beach as these can remain hot for several hours after use. You can cool hot coals with sea water, and place trays into one of the new fireproof barbecue bins that have been installed at key seafront locations. On no account should hot barbecue coals be buried under sand or emptied onto rocks.