5 Hot Weather Tips to Stay Safe and Cool This Summer
Summer 2022 could be the hottest ever recorded with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees over the next few days.
We all need to take measures to keep cool in this climate. A heatwave can affect everyone, but the most vulnerable people are the elderly, particularly 75+. As we age, we become less able to cope with the effects of high temperatures and humidity. Long term conditions such as diabetes and heart conditions can also reduce the ability to cope with heatwaves.
During this hot weather it is important to check on your elderly neighbours and relatives and help them take steps to prevent the effects of the extreme heat.
We’ve put together five essential tips to stay safe in the sun.
1. Hydrate!
Carry a bottle of water around and make sure you drink from it regularly. We should be aiming for 6-8 glasses of water per day, and more in the heat. Avoid excess alcohol and snack on high water content food such as cucumber and watermelon.
2. Create a cool space at home
Pull the blinds down and keep windows closed to keep the heat out. A bowl of cold water full of ice in front of a fan will circulate refreshingly cold air around the room. Taking a cool shower, or running the cold tap over your wrists will keep your temperature down.
3. Avoid outdoor activities
Unless it is necessary, avoid going out in the sun between the hours of 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest. If you are outside, try and stick to shaded areas.
4. Look after your skin
If you absolutely have to be out in the sun, make sure you apply sun cream with an SPF of at least 30. Wear a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect your head, face and ears. Keep any moles covered and take some times to check they haven’t changed size, shape or colour.
5. Act fast if you feel unwell
Heat exhaustion can come on very quickly and can lead to heatstroke. Signs to look out for are feeling faint or dizzy, nausea, headaches and muscle cramps. If you feel unwell, lie down in a cool room and drink plenty of water. If symptoms don’t improve, call your doctor or NHS 111 for advice.
Visit Age UK for more information on what to do in cases of heat exhaustion.
Visit the MET Office for more information on the current forecast and weather warnings.
Recommended products for keeping cool this summer
Our Bath/Shower Boards are ideal for the hot weather. Sit on it and paddle your feet in a cool bath, or, if you have an over bath shower, you can simply sit on it to take a shower, avoiding having to stand up for a long period.
Keep your body cool using one of our Long Handled Sponges.
Our Toe Foot Sponge reduces the need to bend and is perfect for sweaty or swollen feet – keeping you cool and comfortable!