Tips to Stay Cool in the Heatwave
We've been told for the last week now that there's a heatwave upon us. Some of us at RCV are firm believers that winter is the best season, so this is filling us with a bit of dread. Give us a nice hot mug of coffee (preferably from We Connect Coffee Shop & Pantry), a blanket, and a onesie and we're living our best lives! The heatwave this week is no joke. The met office has issued an unprecedented red warning for heat for the first time. Luckily, at the time of writing this blog Wales is set to just have a casual amber warning, no biggie just might hit around 32, not 40. Phew!
We've been looking up some tips to stay cool and safe in heatwaves. Some of you may be feeling anxious about how you keep yourself and your loved ones comfortable over the next few day. It can also be expensive to run fans constantly and through the night so we've collected our top low-cost tips here for you:
Stay Hydrated
Now, we know its tempting to think suns out and drink a few alcoholic beverages but when we say hydrate we mean the boring clear stuff. Quality H20. Alcohol can dehydrate you further which is never a good thing in extreme heat. Drink water. A lot of it and often. On normal days you should be aiming to drink 2 litres of water, use this as a benchmark.
Make sure you're looking after your pets too, they'll probably be drinking more during the day. But more on this below...
Avoid direct sunlight between the strongest UV time
This is usually between 11 am and 3 pm. This is when the sun is at its highest point and therefore sunlight is at its strongest. It is particularly important to keep little ones in the shade during these hours if you can. If you are out in it, try and keep your head covered and remember to...
Lotion up
It is 2022 - you know you need to be wearing sunscreen! Make sure you are buying a suncream that has a 5-star UVA rating on the bottle, it's not just about the factor you wear. Aldi has an amazing range of low-cost suncream that will give you the ultimate protection you need whilst on a budget. Baby oil is not for heatwaves.
Keep your blinds and curtains shut during the day
This is a really simple adjustment that makes the world of difference. It might be tempting to get some natural light in your rooms but that will heat up your home. Open your windows and keep the blinds/shades shut. This will allow airflow in your home and keep things as cool as possible.
Use a light duvet - or just the bed sheet
If you haven't got a light tog quilt then ditch the quilt and just use the sheet. Also try showering just before bed. This lowers your body temperature and will hopefully help you get a more restful sleep on a hot night.
Soak your hands and/or feet in cold water
Putting wet wristbands on your wrists can help bring down your body temperature. Try periodically soaking them throughout the day. You can also try wetting your face or using a spray bottle to mist yourself.
Adjust your routine
If you usually go for a lunchtime run when working from home, you might want to rethink that this week. Try getting up earlier and exercising before the temperatures climb. You may also want to adjust your working hours (if you are able to) so you are able to finish earlier and avoid traveling during the peak hours we mentioned.
Don't forget your pets
Dogs feel the heat a lot harder than we do. Imagine the heat but in a bit heavy fur coat. It's going to be hot. Here are just some basic tips for helping or furbabies over the next few days:
For more tips and advice on how to keep your pets safe during the summer an heatwaves check out the RSPCA website.
When to get help - and where to get it
Heatstroke can occur in extreme heat or during vigorous exercise. It's important to know the signs and what to do if you or someone you love is experiencing symptoms. The following symptoms are taken from the NHS website:
Headaches
Dizziness or confusion
Loss of appetite and feeling sick
Excessive sweating and pale, clammy skin
Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
Fast breathing or pulse
A high temperature of 38C or above
Being very thirsty
Try and cool the person down, and they should feel better within 30 minutes. If they don't we've created this handy guide on when to call 999 and when to call 111:
Stay safe the next few days as this heatwave passes over us. Look after yourself, your loved ones and extend your kindness to your neighbours, particularly if they're vulnerable. If you or your neighbours need any support, don't hesitate to contact us.