Hosepipe ban unlikely, water firm says
BBC Weather Watchers/ JackdogA hosepipe ban is unlikely to be called in Cumbria any time soon, despite a drought being declared across the region in May, a water firm has said.
United Utilities said it was not considering a ban because recent rainfall had topped up its reservoir levels.
It follows restrictions on water usage coming into force in Yorkshire - the first hosepipe ban in the UK this year.
Temperatures are expected to remain high in north-west England this weekend, as the Environment Agency (EA) confirmed the region was still in a drought.
Temperatures in Carlisle, Barrow and Kendal are expected to hit 29C (84F) on Saturday, as the Met Office warned people taking hikes in the Lake District about the risks of strong sunlight.
It said harmful UV levels would increase with altitude, which would lead to a greater risk of sunburn and eye damage.
Temperatures are then expected to drop by Monday, with Carlisle seeing highs of 22C (72F), and Barrow and Kendal seeing highs of 21C (70F).
BBC Weather Watchers/ Mrs MThe Met Office said there were on average 2,000 heat-related deaths every year in England.
It said people should drink plenty of fluids and try to keep out of the sun between 11:00 BST and 15:00 BST when UV rays were at their strongest.
It also advised people to walk in the shade and apply sunscreen.
The RNLI also issued safety advice for those who may go into the water to escape the heat this weekend.
It said people should visit lifeguarded beaches and swim between the red and yellow flags.
RNLI official Linda-Gene Byrne advised a technique called "float to live" for people who may find themselves in trouble in the water.
"Tilt your head back, with your ears submerged," she said. "Relax and try to breathe normally.
"Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat if you need to. By doing this, you give yourself the chance to rest and recover your breathing.
"Once you've regained control of your breathing, you can call for help or swim to safety."