With temperatures on the rise, we have developed some guidance to help you and loved ones stay well and look after yourselves:
Having lived in the hottest part of Australia (my office air conditioner died when it was 48 degrees) I would suggest working differently, as much as possible. Getting up early, when it’s cool, means that some jobs like laundry can be done before the heat of the day. It’s OK to eat less for a few days, cold food or things that need the minimum of heat to prepare. I always have bread and bacon in the freezer, cheese, eggs and tomatoes in the kitchen. We’ve just had toasted sandwiches for tea. Also think about when you go shopping. A lot depends if your car or supermarket has aircon! I often go shopping at 1pm when everyone else has gone home for their lunch, so I can get things I need quickly. Try to have an afternoon nap or rest or read a book. Ignore any strenuous housework. After 6pm open all the windows blinds and curtains to get some fresh evening air into the house. Light all cotton clothes are a must, just shorts and a light cotton top is all that is needed. My mum used to wear nylong undergarments and long trousers even in the heat, dad was usually in his “sports jacket” and they both moaned about the heat. Even just open sandals rather than socks help keep you cooler.
Thank you for sharing @bowlingbun very helpful tips!
9.30 and I’m back from shopping.
Waitrose is my nearest supermarket, it has wonderful air conditioning and the car park was nearly empty!
A damp towel or one that has been kept in the fridge for a while draped around your neck will also help.
You can also buy cooling neck towels on Amazon - also the cooling mats for dogs can be used by humans too with great effect !
Great tips! Thank you @susieq and @bowlingbun!
Great, thanks for sharing @susieq, didn’t know you could get cooling mats for dogs!
Yes, they’re great and come in different sizes. I have a cat and she prefers the kitchen draining board in this heat (!!) but my friends with dogs swear by them. They do come in different sizes and those with large dogs find the bigger ones are perfect for using on their own beds to keep themselves cool in the night ![]()
Forgot to add - socks kept in the fridge help too ![]()
@Paola_Carers_UK , I bought a couple of Chillmax air coolers the other week. Well, there was a sale on at the local B&M. Oh, and a couple of rechargeable fans. Bargains. It gives me an idea what a Roast Chicken feels like. ![]()
Good idea, thanks for sharing! @susieq
Thank you @JohnnyBoy good idea to check the sales!
@susieq thank you susieq I never thought about putting a towel in the fridge to cool and put it round my neck I’ve put one in. You made me laugh about your cat saying she prefers your draining board. Well you did say she was a little diva.
Someone on the radio this morning - I think she was a nurse - was talking about those neck towels. I ordered some straight away, for me and the dog ![]()
Cool down your pulses. Put your wrists under a cool running tap. It does work. And a cold flannel on either the back of your neck or your forehead.
@Paola_Carers_UK , I aim to please Paola. ![]()