Heatwaves, several sunny days with high temperatures, make severe impacts on human health. According to WHO, heatwaves caught 166,000 death between 1998 and 2017, including more than 70,000 European death in 2003. From 2000 to 2016, the number of people endangered by this weather increased by 125 million. (WHO)
Heatwaves are dangerous. So how do you deal with them? Which measures should you take to ensure your well-being? This post will explore tips and strategies to help you effectively deal with a heatwave and stay cool.
#1 Stay Hydrated during Heatwaves
- Drink plenty of water even if you don’t feel thirsty
- Keep a water bottle with you wherever you go
- Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they can contribute to dehydration
#2 Seek Air-Conditioned Environments
- Spend as much time as possible in a cooling place, and an air-conditioners is a bonus
- Spending time in cooling, air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries, shopping malls, or community centers.
#3 Create a Cool Home Environment
- Block out the direct sunlight with window shades, sun shades, UV-blocking window films, or awnings
- Open windows during the cooler evening and early morning hours to facilitate airflow
- Use fans or invest in portable evaporative coolers
#4 Dress Appropriately during Heatwaves
- Wear loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing made of cotton or linen
- Wear clothes with light colors such as white, yellow, green, blue
#5 Stay out of the Sun
- Minimize your exposure to the sun, especially between 10 am and 4 pm
- Seek for the shade as much as possible during the heatwaves
- Carry wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, high SPF sunscreens, and UV-blocking umbrellas
#6 Take Cool Showers or Baths
- Take refreshing showers or soak in a cool bath (pool) to lower your body temperature
- Wet a towel or cloth with cool water, then place it around your neck or forehead
#7 Use Cooling Accessories during Heatwaves
- Personal fans can be with you wherever you go
- Misting sprays provide instant relief by cooling your skin
- Cooling towels can be worn around the neck or forehead to stay cool
#8 Check on Vulnerable Individuals
- Keep an eye on the elder, young children, and pre-existing medical conditions
- Willing to help them to access a cool environment and stay hydrated
#9 Avoid Strenuous Activities
- Avoid vigorous physical activities during the heatwave
- Limit your outdoor activities to early morning or late eveningÂ
- Choose a cool area, take breaks slowly, and do easy exercise if you must
#10 Stay Informed and Connected
- Keep updated on the weather forecast
- Be aware of emergency services and cooling places in your local
- Keep in contact with your friends and family
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Surviving heatwaves requires careful planning and proactive measures. To deal with this hot weather, you should stay hydrated, seek air-conditioned environments, create a cooling home area, dress appropriately, stay out of the sun, take cool showers, use cooling accessories, check on vulnerable individuals, avoid strenuous activities, and stay informed.
Heatwave is serious. During a heatwave, always take care of yourself and seek professional guidance. The content above should not be considered expert advice. So, please consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making serious decisions based on the blog’s content.
Do you have tips to save yourself and others during the heatwave? Let me know in the comment below, folks!
