Caldo, the decalogue with health advice

How to deal with heat waves and avoid health consequences. It is a real decalogue that the Red Cross – as part of the #Effettoterra campaign – puts online on its website and social channels.

These are the recommendations in detail:
1. Go out only in the coolest hours of the day and if possible go to parks and wooded areas. The presence of vegetation lowers the temperature by several degrees.
2. If you leave the house, take a water bottle with you and check that there are fountains along the way. There are many apps that can help you find them.
3. Always carry a hat and sunscreen with you.
4. With the heat the body needs fewer calories: eat small and light meals, prefer fruit and vegetables. A diet good for heat and for the planet.

5. If you don’t have an air conditioner or want to limit its use, keep the rooms of the house cool, keeping windows and shutters closed during the day and opening them in the evening. If you use the air conditioner, do not exceed 5 degrees of difference with the outside. While, if you use a fan remember not to point it directly at you or other people.
6. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcoholic beverages which increase dehydration. Remember that tap or fountain water has a lower environmental impact.
7. Don’t neglect your clothing: loose clothing and light, natural and light-colored fabrics can help regulate your body temperature.
8. Before setting off on the road, check the weather forecast and prepare in advance.
9. Did you know that women, the elderly and children are more susceptible to heat waves? Protect them from health risks by following our advice and, when there are peaks of high temperatures, make sure they are fine.
10. If you experience any of these symptoms it could be heat stroke: breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, weakness, dizziness or cramps. Seek medical help and, in an emergency, call 112 or 118.

Hot, what is the maximum temperature that the heart can bear?

by Naomi Penna

06 July 2023