Top tips to cope with the heatwave from Carmarthenshire Council . .
Take care of yourself, and others around you…
Look out for others
- Keep an eye out for people who are more vulnerable to the heat – older people in particular can suffer.
- Call round to family, friends and neighbours to make sure they are okay. Offer to help – maybe even just popping to the shops on their behalf. Ask them if they need extra support
Keep cool
- Take regular cool showers or baths
- Drink regularly, but avoid drinks containing caffeine, sugary drinks such as cola, and alcohol – water or fruit juice is best
- Eat more cold foods, such as salads, which contain water
- Reduce levels of physical exertion
- Wear loose-fitting cotton clothing
- Always wear a high-protection sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sunhat when outdoors
At home
- Keep out the heat by keeping curtains and blinds closed throughout the day
- Once the temperature has cooled outside, open windows to let in fresh air, but close them at night
- Spray the ground outside windows with water to cool the air, but take care not to create a slip hazard
Symptoms of heatstroke and heat exhaustion include:
- Drowsiness, faintness, or changes in behaviour
- Increased body temperature
- Difficulty breathing and increased heart rate
- Dehydration, nausea or vomiting
- Worsening health problems, especially of heart or respiratory system
If you suspect someone has heatstroke or heat exhaustion, get help and then:
- Take their temperature
- If possible, move them somewhere cooler
- Cool them down quickly by sprinkling them with water, or wrapping them in a damp sheet; use a fan
- Encourage them to drink fluids
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