☀️ Keeping Cool in the Heatwave

Somerset is looking glorious, but when the temperature starts climbing, it’s important to look after yourself, your home, your neighbours and our four legged friends.

Here are some simple ways to stay cool.

💧 Keep yourself cool

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Try to avoid too much alcohol and caffeine.
• Wear loose, lightweight clothing and stay in the shade when you can.
• Avoid strenuous jobs such as gardening, DIY and mowing during the hottest part of the day. The lawn can wait!
• A cool shower, damp flannel or splash of cold water can work wonders.

🏠 Keep your home cool

Keep the sun out. Close curtains and blinds on sunny windows during the day.

Open windows at the right time. If it’s cooler outside than inside, open them to let the cooler air in. Evening and early morning are usually best.

Switch things off. TVs, computers, lights and other electrical equipment all create heat.

Use fans sensibly. They can help you feel cooler, particularly when air is moving across your skin. If it’s cooler outside, position a fan near an open window to help bring cool air in.

And don’t forget that upstairs rooms can get particularly hot.

🐶 Look after your pets

Make sure dogs and other pets have plenty of fresh water and somewhere cool and shady.

Never leave a dog in a parked car, even for a short time.

Try walking dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when pavements are cooler. If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws.

👵 Check on a neighbour

Heat can be particularly difficult for older people, young children and anyone who lives alone.

If you have a neighbour who might appreciate a little help, give them a quick call or knock on the door.

A simple “Are you keeping cool?” could make someone’s day.

That’s village life. We look out for each other.

🌳 Get outside, but find the shade

If your home is getting too hot, find somewhere cooler. A shady garden, woodland or cool public building can provide some welcome relief.

And if you’ve got a paddling pool, this is officially your excuse to use it!

🚨 Know the warning signs

Feeling dizzy, weak, sick, very tired or having a headache can be signs of heat exhaustion. Move somewhere cool, drink water and cool yourself down.

Confusion, loss of consciousness or a seizure can be signs of heatstroke, which is an emergency and requires urgent medical help.

☀️ The village heatwave checklist

Water ✓
Shade ✓
Sunscreen ✓
Windows and curtains managed ✓
Pets kept cool ✓
Neighbour checked on ✓
Lawn mowing postponed ✓

Stay safe, stay hydrated and enjoy the sunshine!

For more information go – HERE