HEALTHY ENVIRONMENTS

There are some simple and easy steps you can take to ensure you and others are staying healthy in the heat. These include:

Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated

• Don't wait until you get thirsty
• If you are going out, take some water with you and always keep a bottle of water in the car
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.

Stay cool

• Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing made of natural fibres, such as cotton
• Plan your day to avoid going out during the hottest part of the day
• Take regular breaks in the shade when outdoors
• Place a damp cloth/scarf/handkerchief on the back of your neck, and re-wet as needed
• Park your car in a shady spot and never leave children or pets in a car unattended
• Wear a hat, sunglasses and carry an umbrella to use as a sun shade
• Splash or spray some water on arms and feet to cool off
• Have cool showers or baths
• Move to the coolest room in the house
• Take a dip at the beach or swimming pools to cool off
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activity or exercise. Try and plan activity for early morning or in the evening.

Keep your house cool

• If the inside temperature is cooler than outside, keep windows closed and blinds down 
• Open the windows once the temperature outside is cooler mostly during the evening, night and early morning
• Use a fan or air-conditioning unit where possible
• Consider using pale curtains or other reflective materials on windows
• Try not to use the stove or oven as often.

Take care of each other

• Keep an eye out on your neighbours and check if they are ok
• Older people who live alone may need to be checked on daily to ensure they are well
• Remember that pets and animals can also suffer from the heat – keep them in the shade and provide them with plenty of water.