With the climate crisis threatening the very existence of humankind, one of the most immediate effects of the crisis is heat waves in the summer months. With each passing year, these grow stronger, making it harder to survive without air conditioning. The number of people who get heat strokes is also exponentially increasing. To help make it through heat waves, and not fall ill, there are a few measures you can take.

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The most important thing to do is to hydrate! Drink plenty of fluids, especially water. During the summer months, you sweat much more intensely, losing fluids and salts from your body. It is essential that you replace all the fluids and salts lost, otherwise you will become dehydrated and become more prone to getting a heat stroke. Second, wear light-colored clothes and more breathable fabrics, such as pure cotton. This is the easiest way to not feel too hot. Darker-colored clothes trap heat and non-breathable fabrics may make you feel “suffocating.”

Next, make sure to not go outdoors during the afternoons. The heat tends to be most intense during this time, making you more prone to heat strokes. To avoid this, make sure to stay indoors, where you are not under direct sunlight. If the area is air-conditioned, it is even better! This way you will not feel the intense temperature at all. If you need to go outdoors during the afternoons, make sure to wear a hat and sunglasses. Try to stay under shades at all times. Both these measures are to reduce direct exposure to sunlight! Lastly, eat cold foods such as ice cream and iced drinks. These will help you feel cooler and help you beat the heat! Avoid hot drinks, such as warm coffee, because you are likely to feel irritable!