Published on Friday 08 September 2023
Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council is prepared for a busy weekend, with temperatures forecast to soar over the coming days.
This late summer sunshine could bring bumper crowds to the area over the next few days, with BCP’s award-winning Blue Flag beaches likely to be packed with people enjoying the spell of weather.
Councillor Mille Earl, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Connected Communities said:
"Our experienced seafront teams are used to managing thousands of visitors in scorching weather. This is business as usual for them and we welcome everyone to our miles of spectacular award-winning beaches.
"We live in an amazing part of the UK, so please respect our towns and beaches and be responsible whilst enjoying the sun.
"Plan any travel ahead of time and ensure you have plenty of water and food in the car as our roads can get extra busy in hot weather.
"High ultraviolet (UV) levels are expected throughout the week and potentially into the weekend, so ensure you are using sun protection factor sunscreen (SPF), seeking shade where possible and staying hydrated.
"You can download the app at www.refill.org.uk to locate over 150 places along the seafront to refill your water bottles for free. Be aware of those such as young children or older people, who may feel the heat more acutely than others.
"We also advise beachgoers to swim at RNLI lifeguarded beaches where possible and remember their essential float to live advice."
Information on RNLI lifeguarded beaches, as well as safety tips, tide times and weather updates can be found here.
The Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) has been triggered across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole due to increased temperatures.
SWEP is an emergency response to support people who are street homeless.
During this time of intense heat, homelessness charity St Mungo’s BCP Street Outreach Service (BCPSOS) will provide additional shifts, distributing water, sun cream, advice and guidance and conduct welfare checks on vulnerable people who are sleeping rough.