Darent Valley Hospital's A&E department has been hot under the collar as admissions have risen during the heatwave.

In a statement on Facebook, the hospital urged people to stay safe in the sun, highlighting the health risks of the weather.

According to the hospital, the main problems caused by high temperatures are dehydration, overheating and heat exhaustion/heatstroke.

The hospital added the most vulnerable people are babies and young children, the elderly and people with existing health conditions.

Among the conditions that can become heightened in the hot weather are Parkinson's disease, mental health problems and breathing problems.

A warning has also been issued to those who have a problem with alcohol or drug misuse and people on medication.

Even the fit and healthy among us are not safe - as labourers and people doing exercise are also deemed to be at a heightened risk.

To stay safe, the hospital has issued guidelines on how best to keep cool. Measures include wearing loose clothing, ditching caffeine and alcohol for water (even if you are not thirsty) and taking cooler showers.

People are also urged to check up on others they know who might be at a higher risk of suffering in the heat.

In an effort to reduce the strain on A&E departments, Darent Valley Hospital has asked people to look into other options if they are feeling unwell, such as urgent care centres or minor injures units.