In 2018, Sweden had around 700 extra deaths due to extreme heat.
This year’s summer may be just as hot, and the government is now calling on all activities within health and social care to review their preparedness.
“Ultimately, it’s about saving lives,” says Minister for the Elderly and Social Insurance Anna Tenje in a press release.
Weather forecasts show that the coming summer may be very hot – even to the extent that it matches the heat wave of 2018. In order for the situation not to be as acute as it was five years ago, it is therefore important that extra measures are put in place.
The government writes that in one press release where businesses are urged to review their action plans in the event of heat waves.
– Having a plan is important and the staff must know what to do if the heat comes. During the summer, it is common to have substitute workers in health care, which makes it extra important that even that staff knows how to act in the event of a heat wave. Ultimately, it’s about saving lives, which is why we urge the businesses concerned to review their preparedness for the summer, says Minister for the Elderly and Social Insurance Anna Tenje.
Risk groups
It is mainly people in elderly care, small children, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases or functional impairment who are affected when it gets extra hot – and it is for them that measures are needed.
– If we get a summer like 2018, it is vital that there is good preparedness. The National Board of Health and Welfare, the Public Health Agency and MSB have previously produced guidance on heat and information material on the health effects of heat waves. The material is a support for individuals, municipalities and regions to reduce mortality and ill-health during a heat wave, says Minister of Social Affairs Jakob Forssmed, in the press release.
The percentage of municipalities that have a contingency plan has increased from 67 to 86 percent, compared to 2018, the government states.
– We recommend that all municipalities and regions review what should be done if we get a heat wave this summer, he says.
The Public Health Authority’s advice in case of a heat wave
BE AWARE OF THE INDOOR TEMPERATURE The risk of health problems increases as soon as the temperature rises indoors. The risk increases significantly when the outdoor temperature reaches 26 °C or more for three consecutive days.
DRINK MORE Don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Eat liquid-rich food such as vegetables and fruit. Avoid large amounts of sugary drinks and alcohol. Keep in mind that people close to you may need help with drinking.
ARRANGE A COOL ENVIRONMENT Use curtains, blinds and awnings. Try to be in the coolest place in the home. Air at night when it is cool.
ARRANGE COOL A cool shower is most effective. A wet towel around the neck is an alternative. Use loose-fitting clothes in natural materials, they are cooler than tight synthetic clothes.
TAKE IT EASY Avoid physical exertion during the hottest hours of the day.
STORE MEDICINE CORRECTLY If your medicine is temperature sensitive, there is information about storage on the packaging or in the package insert.
BE AWARE Warning signs can be elevated body temperature, pulse, breathing rate and new dizziness and abnormal fatigue. Dry mouth and reduced urine output can be signs of dehydration. If you are taking any medicine, e.g. diuretics, the dose may need to be adjusted. Contact the healthcare system for specific advice regarding your health or that of your loved ones.