According to weather forecasters, the coming days will be hot. And heat can be dangerous to health, especially for those with chronic diseases. The city health department reminds you of simple and important tips on how to protect yourself from the heat.
“Too high a temperature can lead to heat or sunstroke if you ignore the simplest safety rules. First of all, it should be remembered that the most vulnerable to heat are babies and preschool children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with certain chronic diseases: cardiovascular, bronchial asthma, diabetes,” the health department of Lviv City Council emphasises.
Top 8 tips on how to escape the heat
Avoid active sun exposure.
If possible, stay out of the sun as little as possible, especially between 11am and 4pm, as this is the peak of the sun’s activity. Look for coolness and shade so that your body can recover. Take a bottle of water and wet wipes with you on your journey.
Take care of your accommodation/place of work.
Close windows with curtains/blinds during the day to avoid direct sunlight. Ventilate and humidify the room. If possible, use fans and air conditioners, but remember the main rule: the temperature difference between the street and the building should not exceed 10 degrees, as this can be harmful to health.
Clothing.
Choose light, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from natural fabrics to allow your body to breathe. Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face, ears and neck.
Water.
During high temperatures, the body reacts in a defensive manner by sweating large amounts of water to cool itself down, and this can lead to dehydration. Therefore, drink water regularly without waiting for the feeling of thirst. Avoid sugary, alcoholic and carbonated drinks, as well as drinks with caffeine – they cause you to lose more fluids. Also, avoid very cold drinks as they can cause stomach cramps. It is better to drink water at room temperature and slowly.
Food.
Do not eat fatty, heavy, spicy or overly salty foods during the heatwave. You should add more fruits, vegetables, salads, and cereals to your diet, and eat meat and fish dishes for dinner or breakfast.
Be careful with your tan.
Sunburn is a sign that the skin has been damaged by UV radiation, so you should protect yourself by using creams with an SPF of at least 30. Apply sun protection half an hour before going out. Sunburn can significantly slow down the skin’s ability to release excess heat.
Caring for others.
Never leave babies, children or pets in a parked car, even with the windows open. When you leave the car, make sure everyone gets out. Remember to give fresh water to your pets.
Medical care.
If you feel unwell because of the heat, be sure to see a doctor. Symptoms of heat stroke usually include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, cramps, low blood pressure, and even loss of consciousness. Professional medical care in such cases can prevent further deterioration of health and save lives.