Top tips to keep your cool in a heatwave

Excessive heat can cause dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. To keep cool and avoid dehydration:

• If possible, avoid going out in the hottest part of the day, between 11am and 3pm, especially if you have existing health problems.

• Drink cold drinks regularly. Avoid drinks which can increase dehydration such as tea, coffee and alcohol.

• When outside, stay in the shade, wear a hat and light loose-fitting clothing. Carry drinks with you. Don't forget the sunscreen.

• Take plenty of cool showers and baths - splashing yourself with cold water on the face and the back of the neck helps.

• Shut and shade windows when it is hotter outside and open them again when it is cooler outside.

• Eat as normal, but try to include more cold foods such as salads and fruit which contain water.

Finally, check on friends, family and neighbours who are more vulnerable to the effects of heat and are less able to look after themselves.

This article was published on Mon 28 June 2010