How to stay safe and keep cool during a heatwave

The European heatwave season has started early this year, with the UK alone experiencing two record-breaking events so far.

The first, at the end of May, saw the UK's record for the hottest day in May broken when temperatures reached 35.1°C at Kew Gardens in London.

The second, in mid-June, brought more records, including the hottest day ever recorded in June, with temperatures reaching 37.7°C in Lingwood.

At least 24 people died in water-related incidents during the two heatwaves.

The picture was similarly hot across Europe, with countries including Germany, Poland and Czechia all recording their highest-ever temperatures.

The heatwave that scorched the UK in June has now moved further east, but meteorologists believe the respite from extreme temperatures may be short-lived, with another spell of hot weather possibly on the way.

The UK's Met Office says temperatures are expected to rise again during the early part of next week, with some areas potentially reaching heatwave thresholds.

Although current forecasts suggest the next spell is unlikely to match the intensity of last week's heat, with lower temperatures and less humidity expected, it is still important to stay safe and keep cool.

Here are some practical tips from the World Health Organization to help you do just that.

How can you stay cool and hydrated? 

Drink water regularly throughout the day, aiming for at least two to three litres. Alcohol and excessive caffeine can contribute to dehydration and are best kept to a minimum.

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and if you need to go outside, protect yourself with a wide-brimmed hat or a cap and sunglasses.

Cool showers, damp towels or misting your skin with water can also help lower your body temperature.

How can you keep your home cool?

Open windows after sunset to let in cooler air, then close them during the day and draw blinds or shutters to block direct sunlight. Switch off unnecessary electrical appliances, which generate additional heat.

The WHO recommends keeping indoor temperatures below 32°C during the day and below 24°C at night, particularly where infants, older adults or people with chronic health conditions are living.

Electric fans can help when temperatures are below 40°C, but become less effective in more extreme heat.

If you have air conditioning, setting it to around 27°C and using a fan can make the room feel several degrees cooler. If your home becomes too hot, spend a few hours in an air-conditioned public building if possible.

When should you avoid going outside?

Limit time outdoors during the hottest hours, especially in direct sunlight, where temperatures can be 10 to 15°C higher than official readings.

If strenuous activity is unavoidable, try to do it early in the morning, when temperatures are at their lowest.

How can you protect children and vulnerable people?

Never leave children or animals in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.

Dress children in light, loose-fitting clothing and protect them from the sun with hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Never cover a baby's pram with a dry blanket, as this traps heat. Instead, use a thin, damp cloth and re-wet it regularly.

Older adults, people with heart, lung or kidney disease, those with disabilities and anyone living alone are at greater risk during a heatwave. Checking in on neighbors, friends or relatives could help prevent a medical emergency.

What are the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

If you develop dizziness, weakness, headache, intense thirst or muscle cramps, move to a cool place immediately, drink water and rest. Seek medical advice if symptoms persist or muscle cramps last longer than an hour.

Heatstroke is a medical emergency and requires immediate treatment. Symptoms include fainting, confusion, nausea, loss of consciousness and, in some cases, a lack of sweating despite the heat.

Call emergency services immediately if heatstroke is suspected.

While waiting for help, move the person to a cool place, remove excess clothing and cool them with cold, wet towels, ice packs or fans if available.

Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol, and if the person is unconscious, place them on their side until medical help arrives.