How to Keep Yourself Safe in a Heatwave

Keeping yourself cool in the hot weather is quite challenging, and with summer already here, you need to be extra careful, especially during Ramadan and the coming months of scorching heat. We’re sharing a guide on how to keep yourself safe in a heatwave.

The heat problem is a serious one as heatwaves kill thousands of people all around the world every year. It is very important to keep your body cool and hydrated as high temperatures can diminish the body’s ability to cool down, which can be dangerous. The main reasons why the body may not do so include high humidity, and other individual factors like age, obesity, dehydration, etc.

Understanding Heatwaves

A heatwave in a region is basically a long period of unusually high temperatures. There is no universal limit on how high these temperatures could be, and it varies from area to area. During a heatwave, the temperatures of the specific region exceed historical averages and usually last for two or three days or sometimes even longer. During this period, the temperature is usually 10 or more degrees above average.

A heatwave involves air being trapped in the atmosphere and the high pressure forces it downward. As the air does not rise, there will be no rain in the area and the hot air will keep getting hotter.

Such extreme conditions can cause health concerns, especially if people are unable to take preventative measures. Heatwaves are more life-threatening than extreme cold situations and it is advisable not to overexert and exhaust yourself, and to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities. Therefore, it is necessary to know how you can protect yourself from this natural disaster.

How to Keep Yourself Safe in a Heatwave

Here are some things that are to be taken care of.to prevent danger from a heatwave:

• Ensure the proper installation of window air conditioners (ACs). Also make sure that all the cracks are sealed and that the area is insulated, if necessary.
• Insulation should be done well. Check to see that the filters are clean, and inspect the air conditioner ducts.
• Install blinds and light-colored drapes and keep them closed during the day to block the heat and sunlight.
• Keep a check on weather forecasts and the upcoming temperature changes.
• Discuss heat safety precautions with your family members and keep them updated.
• It is a good idea to have a home generator or UPS to deal with power outages. A standby generator will keep the AC, lights, and other electrical appliances running, and this will reduce the pressure on the power grids.

How to Survive an Ongoing Heatwave

Here are some tips that can come in handy during a heatwave:

Drink Water

It is crucial to keep yourself hydrated. Drink plenty of water even when you are not thirsty. If you do not feel like drinking a lot of plain water, opt for detox drinks or juices.

Also, eat foods that are hydrating, such as fibrous fruits and vegetables, as they provide maximum benefit to the body.

Avoid Leaving Children and Pets in Car

Do not leave children and pets alone inside vehicles, or even exposed to the elements. This is extremely dangerous and is known to be either life-threatening or fatal.

Keep your pets indoors, especially during the daytime, with access to clean water at all times.

Limit Your OutdoorTime

It is advisable to stay indoors during high temperatures, which are usually from 10 AM to 4 PM. Try to limit your exposure to the sun to prevent the risk of diseases. Also, do not indulge in outdoor games and events during these hours.

Stay Out of Direct Sunlight

If going outside during the day is unavoidable, be careful to avoid exposure to direct sunlight. Some essentials that you might want to carry are a hat or an umbrella.

The most important part is: DON’T forget to wear sunscreen.

Ventilation

Ensuring ventilated and airy living spaces is very important during a heatwave, and it is ideal to stay in air-conditioned areas. If you do not have access to air conditioners, try to stay on the lowest floor where there are fans and the area is well ventilated.

Foods and Drinks to Avoid

It is beneficial to not consume sugary drinks and caffeinated beverages like coffee, tea, and energy drinks during a heatwave.

Eat small portions and try to have three to five meals a day. Avoid consuming empty carbs and try to consume more healthy foods, preferably fruits and vegetables.

We hope you have learned how to keep yourself safe in a heatwave. Do let us know If you have questions on this topic.