How to Stay Cool and Sane During the Ongoing Heatwave?

As temperatures soar across India, it’s crucial to find ways to keep cool and comfortable. Whether it’s for you, your pets, or stray animals, here are some practical tips to help you manage the heatwave.

Staying Indoors

1. Keep Your Home Cool

• Curtains: Close your curtains early in the morning to block out the sun and keep your rooms cooler.
• Wet Towels: Hang wet towels over doors and windows to lower indoor temperatures.

2. Stay Hydrated

• Water Intake: Start your day by filling up two large bottles of water. Track your intake and make sure to finish them by the afternoon. Refill as needed.
• Rest: Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. Reserve your energy for cooler times.

3. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine; Eat Light

• Hydration: Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate you. Opt for water, lemonade, or Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS).
• Diet: Eat light meals, focusing on fruits, yoghurt, and milk. Smaller, more frequent meals are easier to digest in the heat.

4. Wear Light Clothing

• Fabrics: Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen in light colors to stay cool.

5. Manage Water Usage

• Morning Buckets: Fill buckets of water early in the morning to avoid using hot water from the taps later in the day.

6. Create a Cool Living Space

• Linens and Curtains: Use cotton bed linens and heat-absorbing curtains. Keep your environment calm and soothing with soft music and avoid stress.

7. Check on Others

• Community Care: Ensure your family, friends, elderly neighbours, and domestic help are hydrated and cool. If someone works outside, ensure they have shade and rest during peak heat times.

When Going Out

1. Bag Essentials

• Pack: Carry a water bottle, umbrella, sunglasses, napkins, ORS pouch, sunscreen, and loose change. Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going out and reapply every two hours.

2. Plan Your Day

• Scheduling: Check public transport schedules in advance to avoid waiting in the heat. Plan your errands to minimize time spent outside.

For Your Pets and Strays

1. Provide Water

• Hydration: Keep multiple water bowls filled and placed in shady areas for pets and strays.

2. Cool Shelters

• Shelter: Ensure your pets have access to cool, shaded areas. Create makeshift shelters for strays if possible.

3. Limit Outdoor Time

• Walks and Play: Walk your pets early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the peak heat of the day.

By following these essential tips, you can help keep yourself, your pets, and stray animals comfortable and safe during the heatwave. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and take care of those around you.