Is there a list of things I can do to have a healthy summer?

Simple everyday things that can improve welling in hot weather include:

• Drinking water – drink plenty of fluids regardless of activity levels (even if not feeling thirsty); avoid alcohol and drinks containing lots of sugar as these are dehydrating; avoid very cold drinks which may cause stomach cramps; talk to your doctor first if you’re on limited fluids (eg heart failure) and/or taking diuretic medications
• Keeping up your energy – by eating smaller meals more often; having cold meals; avoid using the stove or oven to cook as it will make your home hotter; be mindful of food safety to avoid food poisoning
• Staying cool – draw blinds or curtains; use a fan or air conditioning (if air conditioning is not available consider visiting air-conditioned public spaces e.g. shopping centres, a public library, the cinema); use wet towels or place feet in cool water; take cool (not cold) showers or baths to cool down; don’t rely on a fan as a primary cooling device in extreme heat
• Avoiding heat exposure – stay out of the sun where possible
• Avoiding heat rash – avoid over heating; do not overdress in summer; wear soft, light weight, cotton clothing; avoiding tight clothing; keep cool on hot days; keep sleeping areas cool and well ventilated
• Protecting yourself when outside – wear loose lightweight, light coloured clothes; wear a hat & sunglasses; use sunscreen & insect repellent
• Planning carefully – too much activity on a hot day can lead to heat stress so rest often; where possible, stay indoors or in the shade; pace activities by starting slowly and picking up pace gradually; schedule outdoor activities carefully; limit activity around midday; restrict activity to cooler parts of the day if feasible; avoid physical activities where possible (e.g. sport, renovating, gardening)
• Don’t leave kids, older people or pets in cars – cars heat up to dangerous temperatures quickly, even with the windows slightly open; anyone left unattended in parked cars for even a few minutes is at risk of serious heat-related illnesses and/or death
• Checking up on others – keep in touch with older, sick and/or frail family, friends and neighbours who may need help and people living alone; call them at least once on extreme heat days and ask them to call you
• Keeping informed – check local news for health & safety updates
• Seeing a doctor urgently – if a person shows any signs of heat stress or heatstroke