With the weather forecast showing temperatures that will feel like 35°C + for the next few days. Here are our top tips to stay cool during a heat wave.
General Tips
Wear lightweight, breathable fabrics (cottons and linens).
Stay out of the direct sunlight as much as possible.
Keep hydrated by drinking lots of fluids. Avoid alcohol.
Eat regularly, keeping to fresh foods and less salt when possible. You may prefer to eat smaller snacks throughout the day, rather than big meals.
Be sure to wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses when outside during a heatwave.
At home in a heatwave
Open windows at night when the temperature drops a bit.
Close the windows, blinds and curtains once the sun comes up. If you have windows with no coverings, you can use a bed sheet or blanket on a tension rod for a temporary window covering.
Use an air conditioner or fans to help circulate air.
If you have a fan, spritz yourself with water and stand in front of the fan for a quick refresh.
Outdoors in a heatwave
If you want or have to be outside, try to find shade and set up a kiddie pool or basin of water to soak your feet in.
Avoid the mid-day heat if possible.
If you work outside, be sure to follow many of the tips above. Drink plenty of water, seek shade when/if possible, etc.
Pack some cold wet face cloths or an ice pack in a bag in your cooler. Place the cloth on the back of your neck to help cool you down.
Be aware of the signs of heatstroke:
- Strong, rapid pulse
- Elevated body temperature
- Excessive thirst
- Hot, dry skin
- Dilated pupils
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headaches
- Confusion
- Seizures
Tips from our Facebook Page
We asked our followers how they stay cool!
Frozen cloth at the back of neck. And running cold water at the pulse points on your wrists. ~ Shannon Gaythorpe
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Bucket of cold water to soak my feet in. It helps lower the body temperature.Cold facecloth on the back of the neck, or if you are staying still, under the armpits. Feels amazing! ~ Amy Johnson
Fans and lots of cold water to stay hydrated… ~ Anita McCutcheon Boudreau
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I used to soak the kids ball caps before they put them on so they were cool and wet for a while 🙂 ~Chrystal Moynagh