HEATWAVE: Council issues tips to help keep cool in warm weather

The Met Office has issued an official alert for heatwave conditions.

The highest temperatures for Horsham district are set to be from today (Friday July 18) to Sunday July 20.

Heavy thunderstorms are also expected over this weekend.

HDC has issued the following tips for dealing with the heatwave:

Stay out of the heat:

• Keep out of the sun between 11.00am and 3.00pm.

•If you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a hat.

• Avoid extreme physical exertion.

• Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes.

Cool yourself down:

• Have plenty of cold drinks, and avoid excess alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks.

• Eat cold foods, particularly salads and fruit with a high water content.

• Take a cool shower, bath or body wash.

• Sprinkle water over the skin or clothing, or keep a damp cloth on the back of your neck.

Keep your environment cool:

• Keeping your living space cool is especially important for infants, the elderly and the sick.

• Place a thermometer in your living room and bedroom to keep a check on the temperature.

• Keep windows that are exposed to the sun closed during the day and open windows at night.

• Close curtains that receive morning or afternoon sun.

• Turn off non-essential lights and electrical equipment – they generate heat.

• Keep indoor plants and bowls of water in the house as evaporation helps cool the air.

• If possible, move into a cooler room, especially for sleeping.

• Electric fans may provide some relief, if temperatures are below 35°C.

For more information visit the Met Office’s website.