As the temperatures continue to sizzle and spring seems like a distant memory the Department Health at the Town Hall has issued some guidance and advice so you can enjoy the heat in safety.
In order to avoid sun or heat stroke, exhaustion or other complaints caused by the high temperatures drink plenty of non alcoholic liquids and do not drink large quantities of coffee, tea, sweet drinks or alcohol.
Protect yourself from the sun by using sunshades and wear shirts, wide brimmed hats, long cool trousers and sunglasses.
Remember you are not protected from the heat under a sunshade or when swimming in the pool. The concrete or tiled pool area and the water reflect 85% of the sun´s ultraviolet rays and 80% of the sun rays penetrate clouds.
At the moment it is advisable to protect your eyes from developing cataracts by using sunglasses that block 99% of the UV-A and UV-B and always use high protection sun cream.
Avoid exposure to the sun between 11 am and 4pm.
Use high protection water resistant sun creams even if you are already brown and reapply every 15 to 30 minutes.
Go out and/or take exercise early in the morning or in the evening when temperatures are lower.
Eat light balanced meals with vegetables, fruit, fish and salads.
Drink one and half and two litres of water and other liquids such as juices daily and eat plenty of fruit.
You should be aware that elderly people experience fewer symptoms of thirst and dehydration. Keep the house cool by lowering the blinds and closing the windows during the hottest times. To guarantee ventilation open the window and doors during the cooler periods in the early morning or evening.
