by TheBlueLady

Created on: July 01, 2009   Last Updated: July 03, 2009

Now the summer months are here, the world is enjoying heat waves across Europe and America and the effects of the heat and good weather are beginning the take their toll on people, especially the old and children. Travelling, whether it is in cars, trains, buses or tubes can be a nightmare and if you are travelling on public transport in peak times, chances are it will be hotter, dirtier and more humid than you could ever imagine. In heat waves, the higher temperatures are expected but we all feel the strain as the heat takes it out of us physically. We sweat more, feel tired and fatigued quicker than usual and become dehydrated if we don't drink enough water. Although we enjoy the warm, summer weather we have to take care and be vigilant with our self preservation. To help combat the heat there are some tips to consider for when you are outdoors and at home.

Outdoors

1. Make sure you have sun cream with you, especially if you are going to the beach, park or are spending any length of time outside. The average time for being out in the sun and burning without protection is 25-25 minutes. Sun cream can be bought from any supermarket or drug store and is important protection against burning and ageing. There are many different types of sun cream/sprays available and there are ones specifically made for children.

2. Carry a bottle of water with you-especially if you are travelling to and from work/home or for any length of time. This will keep your body cooler and help to replace the fluids that you lose when you sweat.

3. Wearing a hat is a great way to prevent sun stroke-particularly if you are spending all day outside.

4. Carry a small battery operated fan-these are a god send when the heat gets to you and you need that quick cool down.

5. Wear light, cotton clothes. There is nothing worse than heavy jeans and heavy t-shirts in the summer when there is a heat wave. Your skin can stretch out (with the heat) and the tighter and heavier the clothes, the more uncomfortable you will feel. Lighter clothes are better-short and a vest top are great.

At home

1. You can buy air conditioning units and fir them into your apartment/house etc. These help to de-humidify the room depending on the temperature inside and out. If you want a cheaper version of air-conditions but something which is still effective you can also buy ceiling fans-these are great for giving a room that cooler more comfortable feeling and the cost is pretty reasonable.

2. Rinse your wrists under a cold water tap for 1 or 2 minutes. If you are feeling uncomfortably hot and bothered this method really does work and will cool your body temperature down. You will notice a difference straight away.

3. Buy a paddling pool and use it in your garden. This is great for children but if you fill it with water from a hose pipe people of all ages can enjoy splashing around in the water.

4. Open as many windows as possible. Any air that can get in to each room will help cool it down especially at night, when it can often become really muggy and sultry.

5. Ice -lollies-these are great to have at home or outside. They come in different flavours, shapes and sizes.

6. As when outside, drink plenty of water and cold drinks. Try to avoid lots and lots of alcohol as too much will dehydrate the body even more.

If you consider some of the above tips and be careful whilst out in the sun, you can enjoy the weather and avoid the nasty consequences such as sun burn, heat stroke and sun stroke.

Learn more about this author, TheBlueLady.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.