10 flaws to avoid during a heatwave

This summer heatwave is showing itself in heavy form, especially in Europe. The heat wave is seen as one of the worst in recent years, breaking maximum temperature records.

The term heat wave in various news and newspaper headlines this summer is often accompanied by red alerts due to high temperatures. A heat wave is defined as a very hot time period in which the maximum and minimum temperatures definitely exceed the costs for at least 3 consecutive days and at the same time, depending on each region.

This year’s heat wave stands out with its intensity, prevalence and permanence as it seems to last more than 10 days. Well, how long will the heat wave that has already caused over 360 deaths in Europe last? How to protect yourself from a heat wave?

According to current assumptions, the heatwave may last longer than expected. It is currently assumed to last until at least Tuesday 19 July in Europe. In other words, it is already known that it will affect more than 10 days.

It is claimed that there may be a more general decrease in temperatures in Europe on Wednesday, but it is thought that a heat wave may also come to our country. As temperatures can suddenly rise in half, the heatwave can last for more days and reach up to two weeks.

10 mistakes to avoid during a heatwave

You can benefit from various tips to protect and cool your home as much as possible during these periods of heavy heat. To help you withstand the heat better this summer, here are 10 mistakes to avoid.

1. Keep windows closed during the day

On very hot days the temperatures outside are often higher than inside. Even the wind blows hot, so keep the wind out by closing all windows between 10am and 6pm. Also, avoid contact with sunlight and keep your blinds and curtains closed at the same time.

2. Open the windows at night

Do not try to protect yourself from mosquitoes or street noise by closing your windows on hot nights. Take advantage of nights, the only time of day when the temperature drops below 30°C, to fill your home with fresh, cool air. This is the best time to refresh the bedroom air before going to sleep.

3. Do not turn the fan on yourself

After you dare to go outside in 40°C temperatures, it may naturally be tempting for you to sit in front of your fan once at home. However, this is not the most adequate analysis to cool a room. For ideal ventilation, the air must be spread throughout the room. You can cool the room more properly by placing a wet towel in front of your fan. Another trick is to put large bottles of frozen water next to the device. You can almost feel like you have turned on the air conditioner.

4. Do not use the air conditioner at very cold degrees

If you have air conditioning in your home, if you haven’t used it now, you probably will in the next few days. Be careful not to keep it too cold. The risk of catching a cold is greatly increased. Also, for example, a short fall from 35°C to 20°C can cause thermal shocks ranging from unconsciousness to respiratory failure. The temperature difference between the outer and inner ground should not exceed 8°C.

5. Avoid hot meals

Forget the hot dishes for your dinner tonight. It is recommended that you do not operate ovens, stoves and electrical appliances that may generate heat and heat your interior. Just turning on the oven raises the temperature in the kitchen by a few degrees.

6. Don’t use all the lights

Bulbs generate heat regardless of their size. In order not to raise the temperature during a heat wave, it is recommended that not all lamps be switched on at the same time. A single light is enough to see clearly. Also remember that light attracts mosquitoes after dark.

7. Use less heat-generating devices such as TVs

All other electrical devices, such as TVs and computers, generate heat when turned on. Don’t think about spending the entire evening in front of a screen in an air-conditioned room. Try to enjoy the breeze outdoors in the evening.

8. Avoid very cold showers

When it’s 35°C outside, taking a cold shower can be tempting. Even if you feel relieved at that time, this feeling does not last long. With a cold shower, your body uses its power reserves to maintain a temperature of 37°C and this generates heat. Therefore, to prevent this, a warm shower is recommended, with the rule of not drying too quickly.

9. Avoid alcoholic beverages

You can turn to alcohol to quench your thirst or in a different situation, but the best way to quench your thirst is to drink water before you feel thirsty. It is recommended to drink at least 1.5 liters of water per day. Alcohol also causes your body temperature to rise more, causing you to sweat. This means being more affected by the heat wave.

10. Do not swim outside

It can be tempting to go to the sea or pool when the weather is very hot. However, the rays from the sun during a heat wave can disrupt your skin health. Swimming in the open air for a long time can also cause various burns. In very hot weather, it is more sufficient to swim indoors where the water quality is regularly controlled.