10 Tips and Tricks to stay cool right now

Whilst the hot weather in the UK can be a nice change, it’s important not to forget there are health risks from the weather getting too hot. In England, there is an average of 2000 heat-related deaths every year. See below for different tips that can help to keep you cool during these hot summer months.

Why is a heatwave a problem?

The main risk a heatwave can cause:

Dehydration from not drinking enough water
Overheating can cause issues for individuals who have trouble with their heart or breathing
Heatstroke or heat exhaustion

Tips for staying cool during hot weather:

1. Wet flannel or cloth with cool water – Wrap the cloth around the back of your neck to provide instant heat relief. Repeat the process for as long as necessary.

2. Running cool water on wrists – Running cold water on your pulse points when the heat is unbearable can help to cool down.

3. Stay hydrated - When it’s hot out, your body works extra hard to cool you down and you can probably notice that you’re sweating a lot more. Staying hydrated and avoiding excess alcohol is important to avoid dehydration. According to the alcohol education charity Drinkaware says, alcohol is a diuretic, meaning they need to urinate is higher as well as sweating.

4. Spritzing yourself with cold water - Heat exhaustion can cause sickness feeling, headaches, dizziness, excessive sweating, dizziness, and confusion. Fill a spray bottle with water and mist your skin for quick relief.

5. Lightweight and loose-fitting clothing – Making the switch from artificial fibres like polyester to light, breathable fabrics made from cotton, linen, or silk. Avoiding dark clothes can help with cooling as dark-coloured clothing absorbs sunlight.

6. Cold food and drinks – Grabbing something cold from the fridge and freezer is a perfect way to cool yourself off.

7. Change bed sheets to silk/satin sheets – Change your polyester sheets to cool, breathable sheets.

8. Windows – Closing windows and blinds during the day means that your home does not absorb as much heat as it would if it were open during the daytime. However, at night-time as soon as the temperature drops it’s important to open the windows to allow cool air to come in.

9. Take a cold shower or bath – Taking a cold shower can help to lower your body’s core temperature.

10. Create a DIY air conditioner with fan and ice – Placing a bowl of ice directly in front of a fan is an easy way to create an icy breeze to cool down your space.

Don’t forget

Remember to apply sunscreen regularly, the first layer of sunscreen should be applied at least 30 minutes before going out into the sun and re-apply at least every 2 hours. You should reapply your sunscreen more often if you are taking part in water activities or sweating heavily.
Check your community for cooling centres that open during the heatwave. In addition to the air-conditioned library, school, or community centre to cool off. Make sure to turn off things that generate heat e.g. lights, ovens and any electronic device that draws energy.

Sources

https://www.wikihow.com/Cool-Yourself-Without-Air-Conditioning
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/
https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2022/jul/17/uk-heatwave-how-to-keep-cool-and-stay-safe-in-40c https://www.euronews.com/green/2022/07/16/heatwave-13-cheap-ways-mediterraneans-have-stayed-cool-for-centuries

Date Posted: 19th July 2022