Heatwave: too hot to handle?
Updated on 29 June 2009
Weathermen are forecasting high temperatures over the next few days. Keep cool by following our heatwave do's and don'ts.
Q: Who is at risk during a heatwave?
A: Whilst extreme heat is dangerous to everyone it is especially so to babies and young children, older people, those living in care homes, and those in certain at-risk groups.
When temperatures remain abnormally high over more than a couple of days, excessive heat can prove fatal. In one hot spell in London in August 2003, deaths among people aged over 75 rose by 60 per cent.
Q: What general symptoms should you look out for?
A: In a severe heatwave, extra strain is placed on the heart as it tries to cool the body, this can lead to an increase in heart related illnesses.
Additionally, air quality often gets worse, which can make respiratory symptoms worse. In more extreme situations, one can overheat and dehydrate, leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke. If you have a heart or respiratory problem, this may make your symptoms worse.
Q: What are the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke?
A: For heat exhaustion, the symptoms are: headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, muscle weakness or cramps, pale skin, and a sudden rise in temperature.
If you are suffering from worsening of heart or respiratory symptoms or heat exhaustion, you should move somewhere cool and drink plenty of water or fruit juice.
If heat exhaustion is left untreated, heatstroke can develop, but it can also occur suddenly and without warning.
In the case of heatstroke, the symptoms are: headaches, nausea, an intense thirst, sleepiness; hot, red and dry skin, a sudden rise in temperature, confusion, aggression, convulsions, and a loss of consciousness.
Heatstroke can result in irreversible damage to the body, including the brain, or death. If possible, take a lukewarm shower, or sponge yourself with cold water.
Q: Should I stay out of the sun?
A: If a heatwave is forecast, try to plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat. If possible, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day (11am-3pm).
If you cannot avoid strenuous activity like sport, DIY, or gardening, keep it for the cooler parts of the day such as early morning. If you must go out, stay in the shade.
Wear a hat and light loose fitting clothes, preferably cotton. If you will be outside for some time, take plenty of water with you.
Q: Should I keep my windows closed?
A: External shading, for example shutters, are best. Metal blinds and dark curtains may absorb heat and make the room warmer – replace with curtains with white lining to reflect heat.
Keep windows closed while the room is cooler than it is outside and open them when the temperature inside rises, and at night for ventilation.
If you are worried about security, at least open the windows on the first floor and above, if possible.
Q: What should I eat and drink?
A: Drink regularly, even if you do not feel thirsty. Water and fruit juice are best. Avoid alcohol, tea and coffee - they make dehydration worse. Eat as you normally would.
Try to eat more cold food, particularly salads and fruit.
Q: Should I be taking cold showers?
A: Take cool showers or baths and splash yourself several times a day with cold water, particularly your face and the back of your neck.
A loose, cotton, damp cloth or scarf on the back of the neck can also help you to stay cool.
Indoor and outdoor plants will help keep your home cool due to evaporation and the shading from trees and bushes.
