August is upon us/ This scary heat: What measures should we take?

HIBAPRESS-RABAT-WHO

Heat poses a significant risk to the environment and human health. Heat stress is the leading cause of weather-related deaths. But what measures should be taken accordingly?

-Avoid going out and doing strenuous activities during the hottest hours of the day.

-Stay in the shade. Remember that in the sun, the perception of temperatures can be 10 to 15 °C higher.

-Spend 2 to 3 hours a day in a cool place.

-Be aware of the risk of drowning. Never swim alone.

-Stay informed of official heat warnings.

-Keep your home cool

-Use night air to cool your home by opening windows after dark when the outside temperature is lower than the inside temperature.

-During the day, when temperatures outside are higher than inside, close windows and use blinds or shutters to block direct sunlight. Turn off as many electrical appliances as possible.

-Use electric fans only when temperatures are below 40°C/104°F. At temperatures above 40°C/104°F, fans can further warm the body.

-If you use air conditioning, set the thermostat to 27°C/81°F and turn on an electric fan — the room temperature will feel 4°C cooler. This can also save up to 70% on your air conditioning electricity bill.

-Remember that it can be cooler outside in the shade.