Yeovil Hospital Refutes Claims of Thermometer Removal Amid Heatwave

Yeovil Hospital has firmly denied allegations that thermometers were removed from wards during last weekend’s intense heatwave to conceal high temperatures from patients. A whistle-blower claimed that once temperatures on a ward reached 30.8 degrees Celsius on Sunday, May 24, managers took away the thermometers.

The heatwave affected much of Somerset, with temperatures soaring to 32 degrees Celsius in some areas. Nationally, the UK broke its May heat record twice, with London experiencing more than 34 degrees Celsius on both Tuesday, May 26, and Wednesday, May 27.

The Somerset NHS Foundation Trust stated they have no knowledge of any temperature sensors being removed at Yeovil Hospital. Instead, they highlighted their active efforts to manage heat by relocating cooling units to wards in need.

A spokesperson for the trust said, “Over the past year, we have increased cooling units at Yeovil Hospital, including all birthing rooms in the Women’s Hospital now featuring heating and cooling systems as standard. We have also added 30 new mobile cooling units to supplement the 15 existing ones, minimizing the need to rent extra equipment. These were strategically placed by our estates and facilities team starting Friday, May 22, and throughout the weekend.”

The trust reassured the public, stating, “We constantly monitor temperatures to ensure a safe, comfortable environment for both patients and staff throughout the year.”

It’s important to note that heatwaves pose serious health risks indoors as well. Vulnerable groups include children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, those taking antidepressants, people with substance use issues, and individuals with chronic health conditions.

To stay safe in overheated environments, experts recommend keeping curtains drawn, opening windows when it’s cooler outside, and using electric fans — but only when indoor temperatures are below 35 degrees Celsius.