AN amber heat health alert is being issued for the East Midlands this week – and bin crews in Erewash will again be starting their rounds an hour early to dodge the worst of the searing summer.
A message to local people from the borough council reveals that collections on Thursday and Friday will begin at 6am – soon after sunrise – like they did when temperatures smashed records at the end of June. Residents are advised to think about putting their bins out the night before.
The switch from a 7am start comes amid precautions by the authority to spare its teams from scorching conditions that are proving relentless. Temperatures this week are forecast to top 32°C.
Residents joined the council in paying tribute to the borough’s hardworking teams – with many grateful locals rushing to offer the crews refreshments.
One woman posted on Facebook: “Imagine how thirsty they must get during heatwaves.” Another grateful resident said: “Thanks bin men and women. I’d hate your job especially in this heat.”
A third urged fellow locals: “Offer them bottled water or cans of pop. We love our guys.”
The amber alert – upgraded from a yellow one – was issued by the UK Health Security Agency.
The organisation’s Dr Agostinho Sousa said: “Sustained periods of warm weather can result in serious negative health outcomes across the population, so it is important that everyone takes sensible precautions while enjoying the sun.
“Based on the current forecast, we don’t currently expect the health impacts to be as high as the heatwave we saw at the end of June but older adults and those with pre-existing conditions are still at risk.
“If you have friends, family, or neighbours who are more vulnerable, it is important to check in on them and ensure they are aware of the forecast and are following the necessary advice.
“Simple steps such as staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool are effective ways to help keep yourself and others safe during periods of hot weather.”
Top tips can be found here: How to keep your yourself and your home cool in hot weather – BBC News
Cllr Mark Alfrey, Erewash’s Lead Member for Environment, thanked local people in advance for being flexible about when their bins are emptied as he sang the praises of the council’s refuse collectors. He said: “They continue to do a terrific job amid sweltering conditions that have already seen heat records broken.”
Cllr Alfrey said of the earlier start time: “Let’s make sure everyone knows about this change, especially those who might miss the message on social media.”
