The Kenya Meteorological Department has predicted that the hot weather conditions will persist for the rest of the week in various counties amid Kenyans’ complaints about the sweltering heat that has affected certain parts of the country.
Below are some tips on how one can survive the high heat wave.
1. Stay hydrated.
Bring the heat down a notch by drinking water and taking cold showers.
Avoiding alcohol, hot beverages, and caffeine is strongly recommended since they interfere with the body’s ability to regulate body temperature. This can lead to dehydration and heat cramps, which can potentially cause organ failure.
2. Avoid physical activities.
Exercises that are too strenuous on a hot day may cause heat exhaustion. The body cannot use perspiration to cool itself when its temperature rises above what is regarded as normal.
It is reported that heat exhaustion can cause a 40°C increase in body temperature. This causes insufficient blood circulation in the body, which can result in feelings of weakness and vertigo.
3. Keep your home cool.
Ensure that the room temperature during the day and night is below 32°C and 24°C, respectively. Keep the windows and shutters open at night and closed during the day, especially if they face the sun.
Electric fans can provide heatwave relief if the temperatures do not exceed 35°C; if they do, it could lead to heat-related illnesses.
4. Stay indoors.
If the temperature is too high, stay indoors; if you must go outside, make sure you have sunscreen on.
Keep yourself shaded, especially in the afternoon, dress comfortably, and don a cap or sunglasses.
