Summertime is, without doubt, the best season for many in the UK since it offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities. However, heatwaves are an ever-present concern you should rightly be worried about as you go about your summer activities, significantly since the Met Office predicts that this summer will be one of the warmest on record. Below are five ways to deal with heatwaves this summer.
1. Dress Right and Use Sunscreen
Appropriate dressing is crucial during periods of extreme heat. As such, opt for cotton clothing since this material is lightweight and absorbent, making it perfect for the summer heat. Additionally, wear light-coloured clothing within this period since lighter colours reflect the sun’s heat while darker colours absorb it. Also, prioritise using sunscreen in addition to wearing light-coloured and absorbent clothing for additional protection.
You can select a broad-spectrum sunscreen that can protect you from UVB and UVA rays, two dangerous forms of electromagnetic radiation from the sun. Furthermore, the British Skin Foundation recommends choosing a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30, so keep this in mind when shopping for sunscreen from a UK online pharmacy.
2. Carry a Bottle of Water Around
It is no secret that your body loses more water through sweating when exposed to high temperatures. Therefore, dehydration is always a risk in extreme temperatures that last for a prolonged time. As such, a bottle of water should accompany you on many of your adventures during summer heatwave periods. This way, you can quickly replenish fluids lost due to heat exposure and remain hydrated. Additionally, you should drink water often during these periods to prevent heatstroke or heat exhaustion.
3. Keep Your House as Cool as Possible
You can also maintain a cool temperature within your home to lessen the effect of heatwaves on you and your family. Consequently, turn on your air conditioning to ensure that your entire home remains as cool as can be. If you don’t have air conditioning, you can close your shades and windows to prevent the sun from warming your indoor space. Additionally, consider opening your windows at night to let in cooler air. Finally, use ovens and other appliances that can increase your indoor temperature as minimally as possible to prevent being trapped in extreme heat while indoors.
4. Stay Inside as Much as Possible
Although summer is a time of outdoor fun and indulgence, it would be best to remain indoors during heat waves to stay protected. Limit your time outside in the sun as much as possible, and consider postponing any outdoor games, events, and commitments that aren’t high-priority. Also, consider staying indoors during the hottest period of the day (10 AM to 4 PM) to prevent sunburn and heatstroke.
5. Cool Off with Water
You can also regulate your temperature by cooling off in a swimming pool or taking a shower. Similarly, you can carry a towel around and dip it in cold water to cool your forehead, shoulders, and other pressure points anytime you feel hot.
These are all good tips for hot spells no matter where one lives. Sometimes I forget to xarry a bottle of water or to drink enough.
These are really some great and important tips for keeping cool. I will remember these for next summer. I like the tip of carrying a towel and getting it wet to cool off that is a great idea.