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.

Date Posted: 19th July 2022
 

Read all news items

Back to top