The summer heat has moved in over Sweden. In several parts of the country, the temperature this week is expected to be closer to 30 degrees. Hot weather affects the body and it can be good to be careful in the heat.
Chuansi Gaowho, among other things, researches how people can cope with different types of extreme conditions, gives five tips for dealing with the heat when it comes.
Stay in the shade
People who belong to any risk group, such as the elderly, chronically ill and young children, are particularly sensitive to high temperatures. But everyone is affected by heat. When it is extra hot, it can therefore be good to seek cooler places.
— You can stay indoors, preferably a place with good ventilation. You can also use a fan, says Chuansi Gao, who is associate professor in thermal environment at Lund University of Technology.
Avoid the hottest hours of the day
In the middle of the day, it can be good to stay completely out of the sun, apply sunscreen and wear something on your head.
“It’s not just the air temperature that can be harmful, but also the high UV radiation,” he says.
drink a lot of water
When it’s hot outside, we sweat and lose a lot of fluid. Then it may be good to drink more water than usual to avoid becoming dehydrated. Chuansi Gao points to some warning signs.
— It is important to keep track of the color of your urine. If it is very dark, it may mean that you are dehydrated. It is also good to pay attention if you go to the toilet less often. Thirst is often a late indicator and it’s better to drink even if you don’t feel thirsty, he says.
Wear light-colored and loose-fitting clothing
It is very important to keep the body cool when it is very hot and you should preferably avoid wearing black tight clothes.
— Dark clothes absorb more heat. It is easier for us to get rid of heat from the body if we wear clothes that are not tight as it ventilates more, he says.
Avoid physical activity
Especially in the middle of the day, it can be good not to overexert yourself and avoid physical activities. You can help each other by keeping an extra eye on people around you and how they feel in the heat. You should never do heavy work alone when it’s very hot, says Chuansi Gao.
— It is often better to take it easy in the heat. If you work outdoors, it is good to take many breaks, or to try to do the work during hours when the temperatures are not as high, he says.