Continued heatwaves this summer have increased heat-related risks across Leicestershire and Rutland, with higher chance of wildfires and heat exhaustion and stroke.

The Leicestershire and Rutland Local Resilience Forum (LRF) is urging people to protect their loved ones and the area they live as the region heads into another amber heat health warning.

The LRF is reminding people to stay hydrates and keep out of the sun at its hottest, between 11am and 3pm, as well as check on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours.

Following the shocking death of a 13-year-old boy in Leicestershire, the forum are also urging people against swimming in open water, even if it looks tempting.

During the May and June heatwaves, it is estimated that more than 2,700 people died in England and Wales due to heat-related causes, with cold water shock being cited as one of the reasons.

Cold water shock happens when the body is suddenly immersed in cold water, especially when the body is already hot. The body goes into shock which can lead to drowning.

For this reason, the public has been advised to avoid swimming in open water and instead use swimming pools or areas that have a lifeguard.

The hot weather has also bought an increased risk of wildfires.

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The LRF say people can help reduce the risk of wildfires in the area by taking litter (especially glass bottles) home, dispose of cigarettes safely, avoid barbeques and open flames in areas of dry grass land and report fires immediately by calling 999.

To find out more about how the LRF is helping local communities to become 'risk ready,' visit their website by clicking here.