Everyone loves a bit of warm weather, but intense heatwaves are dangerous for people and wildlife. Here is our guide on how to keep cool and stay safe as the thermometer rises.
If you're looking for somewhere to cool off, head to one of the UK's best lidos and seaside pools this summer, or check out our feature on wild swimming in Britain: water safety and how to get started. Want to help hedgehogs, birds and other garden visitors who are feeling the heat? See our guide to how to help wildlife during a summer heatwave.
In the midst of the heatwave, stay cool with ten simple steps.
How to stay cool in a heatwave
1. Wear cotton or linen
Swap synthetic, silk and other fancy fabrics for cotton and linen. These are great for ventilation and will help cool you down.
2. Combat dehydration
Drink plenty of water as well as cold drinks - the NHS recommends 8-10 glasses of water every day.
3. Grab a parasol
Umbrellas are great for protecting yourself from the heat when outside, so grab one before you step out.
If you do end up succumbing to the sun (and forgetting your suncream), check out our guide to how to treat sunburn.
(Photo by Mahmut Serdar Alakus/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images)
4. Stay cool
Place some ice cubes on your wrists and around your neck for a minute for two - it makes a real difference to your core temperature.
5. Freshen up before bed
Go for a quick shower before hitting the hay to lower your temperature and help you nod off.
6. Drink your tea cold
If you are an avid tea drinker, empty your hot herbal tea into a glass full of ice. It’s refreshing, cheap and keeps you hydrated. Add fruit slices and mint to make it even more delicious. Avoid dehydration at all costs!
7. Eat something spicy
Surprised? Spicy food triggers the heat receptor in the mouth making you sweat, which cools you down from within. Plus, chillis are a great vegetable to fight belly fat, as the chemical compound that gives them their heat also helps increase your metabolism. It's a double win!
8. Pick your moment for exercise
Avoid exercise in the middle of the day. Head out for your daily run first thing in the morning or at twilight to avoid fatigue.
Trail running is a great option for the summer months though, as the ground hardens and it becomes less boggy underfoot. If you prefer to run with others, why not try a Parkrun? We've got a list of the fastest Parkruns in the world if you fancy trying to get a PB, or if you'd just like an easy ride, try one of the easiest Parkrun routes in the UK.
9. Avoid cold showers
Cool or tepid water is better for showering as freezing water will actually make your body attempt to preserve heat.
Heatwaves in history
Do you remember the sizzling summer of 1976?
More than forty years ago, a heatwave held the country in its shimmering, searing thrall. The land cracked, gardens withered and reservoirs lay parched and bare. Matthew Oates looks back to the Great Drought of 1976
