Summer in the Emirates is really hot! It is true that air conditioners are available and help moisturize the atmosphere, but you can reduce the effect of the hot weather while enjoying the summer days with some simple tips that we will learn now. Especially since heat waves can cause many health risks and the risk of excessive exposure to high temperatures may cause death!

Is there a group of people who are at higher risk?

Yes, hot weather can affect some people more. They are:

• Elderly
• Infants and young children
• People with a serious chronic condition, especially heart or breathing problems
• Those taking certain medications, for example, medications that affect sweating and temperature control
• People who misuse alcohol or drugs
• Workers and those who play sports

Tips to reduce the effect of hot weather

Even if you are not one of the people who are more at risk of hot weather, you should follow some tips to help you stay healthy in the summer, such as:

Avoid exposure to heat

• Avoid exposure to the sun from 11 am to 3 pm
• Stay in the shade as much as possible, use sunscreen, and wear a large-brimmed hat
• Avoid extreme physical exertion
• Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothing

Keep cool

• Drink a lot of cold drinks
• Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks
• Eat cold foods such as salads and fruits that have a high-water content.
• Take a shower and splash water on the skin or clothing

Keep your house cool

Keeping the house cool is especially important for infants, the elderly, and those with chronic diseases. You should:

• Close windows exposed to the sun all day and open them at night when the temperature drops.
• Close the curtains in the morning or afternoon. However, you have to be careful when using dark curtains because they can absorb heat, so it is best to replace or put a reflective material between the curtains and the window.
• Turn off unnecessary lights and electrical equipment because they generate heat.
• Keep indoor plants and water bowls in the house because it helps to cool the air.
• Move to a cooler room if possible.

Medication advice

Medicines need certain storage conditions so keep medicines at a temperature below 25°C or in the refrigerator; read the storage instructions on the package.

What if I feel tired because of the hot weather?

If you feel unwell you can:

• Move to a cool place as soon as possible and take your temperature if you feel dizzy, weak, anxious, thirsty, or have a headache.
• Drink some water or fruit juice for hydration.
• Rest in a cool place if you have painful muscle spasms and drink oral rehydration solutions that contain electrolytes.
• Seek medical attention if heat cramps persist for more than an hour.
• Consult your doctor if you experience unusual symptoms or if symptoms persist