Want to know ways of surviving a heat wave without air conditioners?

chaitanya sharma 02-Jun-2016

A heat wave is an extended period of extreme heat, often accompanied by high humidity. Prolonged periods of high temperatures and high humidity can be very dangerous for your health as evaporation is slowed and your body has to work very hard to maintain a normal temperature.

The main risks posed by a heatwave are:

Dehydration (not having enough water)

overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing
heat exhaustion
heatstroke

But there are some ways to keep yourselves cool and comfortable and reduce the impact of these adverse heat waves.

1. 1. Use of Reflective material

Keep rooms cool by using shades or reflective material outside the windows. If this isn't possible, use light-coloured curtains and keep them closed (metallic blinds and dark curtains can make the room hotter).

Image Source

2. 2. Take advantage of the cooling power of water

Fill buckets or basins with cool water and soak your feet. Wet towels can have a cooling effect when worn on shoulders or head.Take cool showers or baths often.

Image Source

3. 3. Remember to maintain an adequate level of hydration

you'll need to consume more water than you usually do when it's hot. You can also drink fluids such as fruit juice or lemon water. But avoid tea,caffeine and alcohol. When it is very hot outside, it's recommended that you drink about 4 cups of water per hour.

Image Source

4. 4. Avoid the heat

Stay out of the sun and donâ€™t go out between 11am and 3pm (the hottest part of the day) if you are vulnerable to heat. Keeping out of the sun is the best way to reduce your exposure to the heat.

Image Source

5. 5. Eat appropriately

Itâ€™s important to make sure you keep eating, but you should adapt your eating habits to the temperature. Eating is an effective method to control your body temperature. Eat well-balanced and light meals regularly, rather than two or three enormous plates of food. Fresh fruits, salads, healthy snacks, and vegetables are good choices.

Image Source

6. 6. Dress appropriately for the heat

Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, and lightly colored clothing. Natural fabrics such as linen, cotton, and hemp are good choices. Avoid wearing polyester and flannel, as these fabrics will hold in sweat, causing you to stew in the humid air.