How best to keep your cool when it’s a red hot scorcher
Green campaigner and consumer expert Angela Terry examines how to keep cool when it’s really hot. Q: How do I keep cool when it’s hot? A: Global warming means that heatwaves are becoming more common. This year, record-breaking temperatures have been recorded all over the globe – even in the Arctic and Antarctic.
This trend is set to continue. This could be the coolest summer of the rest of your life so it’s a great idea to learn how to feel cool when temperatures are soaring. Here are my tips …
During a heatwave we need to drink more water than usual to maintain our body temperature and replace fluids lost through sweat. Aim to up your water consumption to around 2.5 litres a day.
We sweat because it helps control our body temperature. It works by releasing heat through beads of sweat that evaporate off the skin. Water can work the same way.
If you’re working at home you can regularly spritz water on your face and neck. Make
Drink water Use water
sure to keep your computer or laptop dry! You can also steep your feet in a bowl of water under your desk.
Use tepid water. Ice-cold water actually makes you feel warmer afterwards because your body has to work harder to balance your core temperature with that of your skin.
Seek shade
If you’re outside try to stay in the shade. If you have a garden without a tree, then buy a parasol or sun shade.
Remember being in the shade won’t protect you from heat exhaustion. Keep sipping water, wear a wide brim hat and use high protection sun cream.
Wear natural fabrics
Choose loose-fitting clothes made from breathable, natural fabrics, like cotton, linen and bamboo. Synthetic materials, like polyester, are water resistant. This means they're terrible at absorbing moisture. When you wear them, your sweat builds up because it has nowhere to go.
Exercise is essential for health and wellbeing. But during a heatwave, your body is already working overtime, so take it easy, especially at peak heat between 11am and 3pm.
Air conditioning units and electric fans account for a whopping ten per cent of global electricity consumption. Due to rising temperatures, the global stock of air conditioners is projected to rise from 1.6 billion to 5.6 billion by 2050. Air con leaks gases known as hydrofluorocarbon refrigerants (HFCs) – a major contributor to global warming.
Sleeping during a heatwave can be tricky. Pop your pyjamas in the freezer half an hour before bed. Avoid heavy meals and excess alcohol. Taking a lukewarm shower before bed should also help you drift off.
Exercise less Avoid air con Freeze your PJs
Green campaigner and consumer expert Angela Terry separates climate change facts from fiction and explains how you can take simple, practical steps to help savethe planet. Follow @ouronehome & visit onehome.org.uk for more advice