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Safe trough the summer
How to get through the hot weather safely
We are experiencing more and more weather extremes due to climate change. Our summers are getting warmer and warmer, and the number of hot days and tropical nights has risen significantly in recent years. A reversal of this trend is not in sight.
The question of how we can protect ourselves and others from the effects of the heat is becoming increasingly relevant. According to estimates by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), around 4,500 more people will die in summer 2022 than predicted. Incorrect exposure to heat can have serious consequences in the form of heatstroke (life-threatening overheating of the body) or heat exhaustion (circulatory failure with dizziness and fainting).
The most important measures for heat protection
The obvious first: drink enough! Take advantage of the free mineral water on offer at the UW/H or the clean tap water, because drinking enough is half the battle.
Airy clothing is a key factor in how you feel in the heat. Come in a way that makes you feel comfortable! Light, airy clothing is recommended. Remember to wear sufficient UV protection and sunglasses.
Ventilate thoroughly in the morning and then keep the windows closed as soon as it is warmer outside than inside. Lower the external sun protection as soon as the sun shines on your window. The internal glare protection has hardly any effect against the sun's heat.
Optimize the room climate by hanging up a wet towel. When drying, heat is extracted from the air, which has a cooling effect on the surrounding air. However, keep it in moderation - air that is too humid is perceived as warmer (tropical effect).
Do not point the fan directly at your body to avoid dry eyes and tension. Do not use the highest setting, as noise can disturb your concentration and the increased energy consumption releases additional heat.
Give preference to light, easily digestible food. Heavy or high-fat meals put more strain on the body and lead to additional heat production through complex digestive processes.
Stay informed! Keep up to date - with the heat warnings from the German Weather Service.
How do I recognize overheating in myself and others?
Recognizing symptoms of overheating of the body is very important to protect ourselves.
- Headaches
- Dizziness and concentration problems
- Exhaustion and feeling weak
- Muscle cramps due to loss of fluids and salt
- Nausea
- Heat exhaustion: heavy sweating, accelerated pulse, low blood pressure
- Heat exhaustion: Circulatory failure with dizziness, fainting
- Heat stroke: Life-threatening overheating of the body (body temperature over 40°C, dry skin, confusion, unconsciousness)
- Heat-related seizures
- Repeated, violent vomiting
- Sudden confusion or clouding of consciousness
- Circulatory shock
- Provide active helpImmediately move the affected person into the shade and elevate their upper body.
- Offer water or other drinks (fruit juice spritzer, fruit teas) if the person is fully conscious.
- Offer something to cool the body (damp cloths / no ice directly on the body)
- If the person is drowsy, put their legs up.
- If unconscious: place the person in the recovery position
- If the symptoms worsen, call the emergency number 112
Further tips on heat protection
Long-term measures
The acute relief of symptoms is crucial for our well-being in everyday life. At the same time, there are many measures with indirect positive effects. The measures that protect us from the effects of heat not only in the short term, but also in the long term, are crucial in order to avoid possible consequential damage caused by heat and sunlight.
Plan more time for your way to work if it involves physical exertion (cycling, walking).
Wherever possible, errands should be postponed to the early morning or evening hours, as physical activity during the hottest hours (11:00 - 18:00) can cause circulatory problems and other negative symptoms.
In strong sunlight, it is advisable to wear adequate UV protection, a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and skin from damage.
If you are organizing an event, find out about the forecast temperatures and avoid rooms on the top floor wherever possible.
Active cooling with cold foot baths, moist compresses or spray water.
Offer your pet a cool retreat and never leave it in a hot car!
Water plants infrequently, but generously.
With a strengthened cardiovascular system - by promoting our own fitness - our body can cope better with periods of heat.
Some medications interact negatively with prolonged heat, talk to your doctor about possible complications.
Who is particularly at risk from heat?
Extreme heat can be stressful for everyone, but some groups of people are particularly at risk. Their bodies react more sensitively to high temperatures, which increases the risk of health problems. Especially during hot spells, it is important to look after yourself and potentially vulnerable colleagues or relatives. People are particularly at risk:
- People with chronic illnesses (e.g. cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory diseases)
- People taking certain medication (e.g. dehydrating, antihypertensive or psychotropic medication - consultation with a doctor is recommended)
- Infants and small children (body cannot yet regulate temperature well)
- Pregnant women (increased strain on the circulation)
- People who are severely underweight or overweight