Here are a few tips for preparing for hot weather, and for dealing with it when it arrives:-
- If you know a heatwave is coming, and are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures, then stock up on food, drink and medication
- Think about buying a fan
- Stay inside during the hottest times of day (11am to 3pm) and close the curtains or blinds
- Stay in the coolest rooms in the house (close curtains in rooms that get a lot of sun) - keep windows closed while the room is cooler than it is outside and open them when the temperature inside rises, and at night for ventilation
- Where you need to open windows, open them at different locations, leaving doors open to create a breeze through the house, to aid the cooling process
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel especially thirsty - try to keep a bottle with you when you go out, especially when using public transport. If you don't like plain water, add a little cordial or fruit juice
- If you find that you lose your appetite during hot weather, make sure you still eat. Try eating light, cold foods like salads and fruit
- Avoid coffee, tea and alcohol - they will make you more dehydrated
- Use sunscreen lotion of at least factor 15 when you go outside, and follow the instructions on the bottle. And wear a hat!
- Avoid strenuous activity
- Wear light and loose-fitting cotton clothes
- Have cool or lukewarm baths or showers or splash yourself with water when you get too hot. Don't use ice-cold water as this can be too much of a shock to the system - just below blood temperature is best.
- Check the weather regularly so you can be prepared for a heatwave. You can find more information about this from the Met Office.
Do consult your GP if you feel you have difficulty dealing with hot weather, or it makes you feel unwell.
