Heatwave: how to cope in hot weather. When the mercury rises, staying cool and hydrated is essential. Heatwaves can be especially dangerous for people with pre-existing health conditions and the elderly. Here’s how to cope safely with heatwave conditions. Heatwaves are an expected natural phenomenon in hot countries during summers, but they can prove lethal if precautions are not taken. These prolonged periods of heat happen when there is an imbalance between the moisture in the air and solar radiation. The combined effect of these factors causes heat waves that may last for a week or more at a time.
Stay cool indoors
Indoor environments can be very hot in the summer, so take every precaution to stay cool and hydrated. – Stay hydrated – Eat light meals – Try to avoid alcoholic drinks – Wear light-coloured and light fabrics – Close windows and blinds – Use air conditioning – Stay out of the sun during the hottest part of the day – Wash clothes in cold water – Beat the heat with a fan – Check on elderly neighbours – Protect your skin with sunscreen
Go outside in the morning and evening
If you have to go outside during the hottest part of the day, try to do so in the early morning or late evening. It is cooler during these times, and you will be less at risk of dehydration. Avoid going out if you have to travel by car. If you do, try to find a shaded spot to park your car. Don’t stay in your car in direct sunlight while you are waiting as this can cause your car to become very hot. Also, make sure to use a sun-shield to keep the steering wheel and dashboard cool.
Wear light-coloured and light fabrics
Wearing light-coloured and light fabrics will help you to stay cool due to the way they are able to draw away the heat from your body. It is advisable to wear looser clothing when the weather is hot as it allows air to circulate around your body helping to keep you cool.
Check on elderly neighbours
If an elderly neighbour is living alone, take time out to check on them and make sure that they have everything they need to keep cool during a heatwave. If you look after an older person, make sure you keep an eye on them and make regular checks to see if they are coping with the extra heat.
Protect your skin with sunscreen
The sun’s rays are stronger during a heatwave, so it is essential to protect your skin with sunscreen. Regularly apply high-factor sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. If you are going to be outside during the heat of the day, try to do so in the early morning or late evening as it will be cooler at this time and you will be less at risk of dehydration.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.