How to keep cool and safe in a heatwave

As temperatures keep rising around the world, we take a look at the risks of heatwaves and the main recommendations to keep safe. People with health conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as diabetes, are also at high risk of complications caused by excess heat. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heat exhaustion occurs when the body responds to an excessive loss of water and salt, and it tends to affect the elderly, people with high pressure and those working in hot environments. As per England’s National Health Service, the signs of heat exhaustion are: headache dizziness and confusion loss of appetite and feeling sick excessive sweating and pale skin fast breathing or pulse a high temperature of 38C and above What are the signs of heat stroke? For keeping a house cool, health authorities advise to: keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day, and open them at night when the temperature has dropped keep curtains closed but be aware of dark curtains as they absorb the heat place a thermometer in the living room and bedroom to keep track of the temperature; according to the WHO, the room temperature should be kept below 32C during the day and 24C at night turn off non-essential electrical equipment as they also generate heat authorities also advise keeping indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps keep the air cool if possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping It is also recommended to keep an eye on family, friends and neighbours as vulnerable people might need assistance during hot days.