As the UK experiences record-breaking June temperatures, with the mercury surpassing 40C in some areas, an Australian-based expert has shared key morning routine tips to help Britons manage 'heat strain' and stay safe. The heatwave has caused train breakdowns and exposed the country's ill-preparedness for extreme heat, with infrastructure beginning to buckle under the strain.
Restructure Your Daily Routine
Writing in the Guardian, Alyx Gorman recommends restructuring your schedule to avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. He suggests completing household chores in the early hours of the morning, before the heat builds. 'When hot weather is on the horizon, try to restructure your schedule to avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. This should be enough to keep you safe from the heat strain when temperatures are below 35C,' he explained.
Wake Up Before the Sun
Gorman emphasizes that Australians are among the world's earliest risers for a reason. 'We try to get up before the temperature does. On hot days, exercising, walking the dog and watering the garden are all best done just after dawn, so set your alarm accordingly,' he said. This approach helps avoid the peak heat hours and reduces the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Avoid Cold Showers
Consumer group Which? has warned against a common method used to beat the heat: taking cold showers. While cold showers are frequently used to stay cool, they may not be effective. The group cautioned that subjecting the body to extreme cold can cause it to retain heat instead of releasing it. 'Don't be tempted to turn the dial right round to freezing when having a shower. If your body is subjected to extreme cold, it will try to regulate its core temperature by retaining heat,' they explained. This increases blood flow to the skin, making you feel even hotter. Instead, Which? recommends using cool or lukewarm water and letting yourself air dry, as the evaporation creates a cooling effect on the skin.
Met Office Warning
The Met Office has issued a Red Extreme Heat Warning, which came into force at 9am on Wednesday and will last until Thursday evening. Chief Forecaster Matthew Lehnert stated: 'Red warnings are reserved for the most severe events and we're expecting significant impacts from this heatwave, with health issues likely, even beyond those who are more vulnerable to the heat. High humidity is an additional factor for this heatwave which will mean the heat will feel much more potent for many.'
