What to do in hot weather?
For many people, warm weather means enjoying the beach or garden. For others, it can be less enjoyable. People who are unable to take good care of themselves need more attention on hot days to reduce heat-related nuisances and prevent health problems.
Vulnerable groups
Hot weather can cause those unable to take good care of themselves to experience discomfort (such as fatigue, headaches and difficulty concentrating) and more serious health problems (such as dehydration and heat stroke). Elderly people are the most vulnerable group because they have poorer control over their body temperature and are less likely to feel thirsty. In addition, without taking measures, others can easily experience discomfort or health problems; think of people with chronic conditions, those in social isolation, homeless people, overweight people and (very) young children. Both extreme heat and high concentrations of ozone in summer (summer smog) affect everyone, but summer smog also affects vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children, people with respiratory diseases and people who exercise in the outdoors.
Tips to prevent discomfort and health problems
It is good to think about whether there are people in your area who are vulnerable and pay extra attention to them. Key tips for everyone that will help prevent discomfort and health problems caused by the heat and smog are:
- Drink plenty of (water);
- Keeping the home cool by blinds, fans or air conditioning;
- Limit physical exertion in the afternoon and early evening.
In addition, it is wise to prevent sunburn. For this, good protection is important.
National Heat Plan
The National Heat Plan is a plan of action aimed at alerting organizations, professionals and volunteers in a timely manner that persistent hot weather is predicted where measures should be taken to protect vulnerable groups. In this way, measures can be taken in time to reduce and (where possible) prevent discomfort and health problems among vulnerable groups such as the elderly. If it is hot for an extended period of time and the temperature rises very high, even people in good health can suffer from overheating or heat exhaustion.
Source: RIVM
