Heatwave kit: stay cool and safe in extreme heat
A heatwave kit keeps your home and body cool when temperatures stay high for days, especially for older people, babies and anyone with a health condition. Most of it you already own; the rest costs €30–€70.
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The checklist
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Know when a room becomes unsafe (above about 26 °C (79 °F) at night).
Drink regularly, before you feel thirsty.
Replace salts lost through sweating.
Works during the blackouts heatwaves can cause.
Keeps heat out during the day.
Wet, wring, wear. Lowers skin temperature fast.
A fine mist plus a fan cools effectively.
For essential trips outside.
Tips
- Close shutters and curtains in the morning; ventilate at night.
- Check on older neighbours at least once a day.
- Never leave children or pets in a parked car.
Questions people ask
What temperature is dangerous indoors?
Health agencies advise keeping bedrooms below about 26 °C (79 °F) at night. Above that, sleep and recovery suffer, especially for older people.
What are signs of heatstroke?
Confusion, hot dry skin, a very high temperature or loss of consciousness. Call 112 immediately and cool the person down.