In warm weather, it’s important to keep yourself cool, stay safe in the heat, and avoid risks such as heatstroke.
There are lots you can do to keep cool:
- Avoid the sun when it is strongest, typically between 11am and 3 pm. If outdoors, apply high protection sunscreen regularly, wear a wide-brimmed hat and seek shade
- Keep your home cool: keep windows and curtains closed in rooms that face the sun during the day. open windows (if it is safe to) when the air feels cooler outside than inside, for example at night, and try to get air flowing through your home
- limit strenuous physical activity, or plan physical activity for times of the day when it is cooler, like the early morning or evening
- avoid hot, closed spaces like stationary cars
- wear loose, light-coloured clothing made from breathable natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. Dark colours and synthetic materials absorb and trap heat
- stay hydrated throughout the day, not only when thirsty. If sweating heavily, consider rehydration drinks to replace lost electrolytes. Limit caffeine and alcohol, which contribute to dehydration
- spray or sponge your skin with cool water. Cold packs wrapped in a cloth and put under the armpits or on the neck can also help
- turn off non-essential electronics. TV, laptops and chargers generate heat
