With an Amber warning in place for heat this week, here are some top tips on how to keep yourself, your home, and your furry friends cool during the current heatwave!
Hydration is key!! Sweating, though kind of unappealing sometimes, is your body’s way of cooling you down. While iced water is your safest bet in cooling you down, any liquid is better than no liquid, although we are not suggesting 10 pints down the pub! Having said that, make sure you’re not drinking coffee, as it’s a diuretic and can have dehydrating effects. Fruit, such as pineapple and strawberries are a great thing to snack on during hot weather as their natural juices will also help keep you hydrated
The sun is the hottest between 11am and 2pm, and sunburns are most likely to happen during that period. Limiting your exposure will limit your chances of overheating.
If you can’t get around not being outside during those hours, make sure you dress appropriately and remember to slap on the suntan lotion regularly!
Get up early and open all your doors and windows, letting the cooler morning air in. Once the temperature inside reaches the same as outside, close the windows and doors and pull any curtains or blinds. Opening the loft hatch is also a good way of cooling your property down as the heat will rise up into the roof.
It may seem a bit crazy, but placing your bedding into the freezer half an hour before you go to bed really will help to cool you down and get a better nights sleep!
Our furry friends really can suffer during the summer. Avoid taking them in the car if they have to be left for any period of time. Never ever take them out for walks during the day as pavement temperatures can reach up to 45 degrees. Early morning, or late evening are the best times to take them. Ensure they have plently of shade and water at all times, perhaps invest in a paddling pool for them to splash about it in! Cooling mats are a great idea as well as access to flop in front of a fan if they want to.
Enjoy the warm weather, but remember to stay safe and stay cool and hydrated!!