Top 10 tips for staying cool in 32C heatwave today including old Royal Navy trick
BRITS have been flocking to beaches and parks this weekend to soak up the glorious sunshine in a summer scorcher.
The heatwave is likely to last into next week, with temperatures set to soar above 32C on Tuesday, according to forecasters.
It comes as an extreme heat warning was issued by the Met Office with the mercury already predicted to pass the 30C mark on Monday.
Forecasters have already put a Level 3 Health Alert in place from Monday until Friday.
And while summer is a lot of fun, it can sometimes lead to health emergencies, so knowing first aid tips is vital.
So what's the best way to keep cool in the heatwave? Here are our top 10 tips.
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Stay hydrated
It goes without saying that drinking water will help you to function properly in the sweltering heat.
Cool down from the inside out by staying hydrated with plenty of liquids.
It is recommended to drink between 1.5 and 2 litres per day. Don't forget your body will lose more water through sweat in summer.
Avoid alcohol
This seems like one many will ignore with beer gardens packed to the rafters.
However, forecasters do advise against drinking alcohol in the intense heat because it causes dehydration.
Teas and coffees are also discouraged as they can act as diuretics.
Submerging hands
Royal Navy officers have been submerging their hands in cold water to cool down faster since the 1990s, reports
Research has shown colder water speeds up the rate of cooling - with core temperature reduced by around one degree for every 10 minutes of hand immersion in 15C water.
This technique has also been adopted by athletes who need to cool down rapidly when alternating between rest and movement.
Give it a try during this heatwave.
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Turn on the fan
Something the majority of Brits will be doing already is turning on the fan.
Fans can help your body regulate its internal temperature - and can cool you down even better.
If you haven't got one, fill a hot water bottle with cold water instead.
Freeze your pyjamas
During the day, place your pillowcase or pyjamas in the freezer. Take them out before going to bed.
This icy trick will hopefully cool you down and help you sleep better.
Throughout the day, wearing loose, cool clothing and shield yourself from the sun using a hat.
No more duvet
While its always a nice feeling to snuggle your duvet, it needs to be dumped during the heatwave.
Thin cotton sheets will absorb sweat and are more comfortable than duvets.
Your body temperature will begin falling during the night and you will hopefully wake up feeling more refreshed.
Close windows
While this might seem like bizarre advice, keeping windows closed and drawing the blinds during the peak heat will keep rooms cooler.
You should open your windows later for ventilation in the evening when it is cooler outside.
Sleep lower
It's a well known fact that heat rises, so if your home has several floors it's worth a shot sleeping downstairs.
Spend more time in the coolest room in the house to stay icy.
Plan ahead
One key way to stay cool in the blistering heat is simply to plan ahead.
Make sure you have an adequate supply of sun cream, fluids and medication if you need it.
The NHS advises that anyone vulnerable to the effects of heat should avoid the sun during the hottest part of the day, which is usually between 11am and 3pm.
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Ice points
Last but not least, applying ice to the wrists and side of the neck can help to lower body heat.
This is because blood vessels in those areas are close to the skin's surface.