Tops tips on staying cool!
The HSE and Department of Health (DOH) today (Tuesday) issued tips and advice so that people can enjoy safely the good summer weather.
Dr Kevin Kelleher, HSE Assistant National Director for Health Protection, said “During a hot spell deaths in people aged 75 and over can rise by up to 60% more than would normally be expected.
"Those with heart, respiratory and serious health problems are more at risk of potentially adverse effects of very warm weather, while babies and young children are also especially at risk."
It is best avoid getting too hot in the first place. Remember to think of those who may be more at risk from the effects of heat.
Top tips for staying cool - stay out of the heat!
Keep out of the sun between 11.00am and 3.00pm, if you have to go out in the heat, walk in the shade, apply sunscreen with UVA protection and wear a hat and light scarf. Avoid extreme physical exertion. If you can’t avoid strenuous outdoor activity, like sport, DIY or gardening, keep it for cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening. Wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes and a hat to shade face, neck and ears. Wear a broad brimmed hat and sunscreen with UVA protection factor 20, 30, 40, or 50 depending on your skin type. If you have children make sure they are properly protected as their skin is extra sensitive. And wear sunglasses.
Remember, heatstroke can kill. It can develop very suddenly, and rapidly lead to unconsciousness. If you suspect someone has heatstroke, call 999 immediately.
While waiting for the ambulance, move the person somewhere cooler if possible, increase ventilation by opening windows or using a fan and cool the affected person as quickly as possibly by loosening their clothes, sprinkling them with cold water or wrapping them in a damp sheet. If they are conscious, give them water or fruit juice to drink.
Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol.