Keeping A Cool Head in Sweltering Temperatures

As temperatures soar to record levels this weekend an organisation working with the elderly is offering tips on how to stay safe and cool under the midday sun.

The first heat-health alert of 2023 was issued ahead of this weekend when the hottest day of the year so far, has been forecast.

And this, says Oak Tree Mobility, which supplies specialist equipment to older people, can spell danger for those with physical disabilities or mobility issues, certainly at night when, they say, it is imperative to regulate body temperature.

The office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that across all five heat-periods in 2022 (when a Level 3 Heat Health Alert is issued or when the mean Central England Temperature is above 20 degrees), the total estimated excess mortality of over 65s was 2,803 - the highest since the introduction of the Heatwave plan for England in 2004.

Whilst sleep deprivation, says Oak Tree Mobility, can result in tiredness, as well as symptoms related to daytime impairment such as reduced concentration, slower thinking, and mood changes, physical issues such as heatstroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration can be extremely dangerous.

With this in mind the company has put together tips to keep cool and stay safe throughout the night this Summer:

Cool your Body
Using cold water to cool your body, either in the form of a cold shower or a wet flannel can prove to be extremely effective at helping to lower core body temperatures. Putting something cool on your wrists and ankles is the best bet.
Avoid excessive heat build-up during the day in your body by not doing vigorous exercise. Exercise increases your internal temperature, so you should allow yourself several hours to cool down before bed.
In bed, spread your arms and legs so they’re not touching your body to reduce body heat and sweat, letting air circulate around your body.
Use a hot water bottle as a bed-friendly ice pack. Simply fill it with water and stick it in the freezer for sweet heat relief.
Make sure you drink water before bed to keep hydrated. When you sweat during the night you lose vital water and electrolytes. Water will replace what is lost as well as cooling you down.
The use of fans, removing excess clothing and hydrating sufficiently are also extremely effective ways in which you can keep cool at night, allowing for a peaceful sleep in the heat.

Cool your Environment
Using breathable cotton bedding is an effective way of staying cool at night. Lightweight materials do not trap heat or moisture, meaning you can stay comfortable at night and avoid the risk of overheating.
Sleeping in a bed that is closer to the floor is also a good way to stay cool. As heat rises, the lower to the ground we are, the cooler we can remain.
If your room isn’t the coolest, darkest and quietest place in the house, moving rooms is recommended.
Keep your house cool. If it’s hot during the day, draw the curtains and blinds to help keep your house at the perfect sleeping temperature of 16-18 degrees.
Keep your lights switched off. Even environmentally friendly light-bulbs give off heat.
Try hanging a wet sheet over your open window. This allows cool air to circulate around your room.