The Greek National Agency for Public Health guidelines for keeping safe during heat waves:- 

• Stay in shady and cool places away from crowds.
• Avoid heavy physical work, especially when temperatures and humidity are excessive.
• Do not engage in physical exercise (eg walking or running) for any extended period under the sun.
• Wear light, comfortable and light-coloured clothes made of natural material to help with the ventilation of the body and the evaporation of sweat.
• Choose a hat that ensures good ventilation of the head and wear dark sunglasses, preferably polarised and with lenses that protect from UVA and UVB radiation.
• Make sure your diet consists of light and small meals, with emphasis on fruits and vegetables and reduce the intake of fats.
• Consume plenty of fluids (water and fruit juices), while if sweating, add salt to your food.
• Take a warm shower during the day, or put wet covers on the head and neck.
• Those who suffer from chronic diseases (respiratory, cardiovascular, etc. to consult their doctor for the implementation of special instructions.
• Avoid long journeys by public transport when the temperature is excessive.
• Regarding newborn babies, dress them as lightly as possible. Make sure that their hands and feet are free and not covered and that they always wear a hat. In addition to milk, it is recommended to give other liquids such as chamomile, water, etc. Especially for babies and older children, make sure that they eat more herbs and fruits and less fat.
• Regarding elderly people, they should stay in the coolest place indoors. Open windows at night and during the day keep shutters down.

Health problems caused by excessive heat

– Dehydration : With sweat, a lot of fluids are lost along with essential minerals, such as sodium and potassium. It is necessary to move to a cool place and take a drinkable hydration solution, for example with salt and sugar. Severe cases need urgent care, including intravenous fluids.

– Heat stroke : In this case, body temperature cannot be self-controlled. The skin becomes hot and dry. The person may have a fast pulse, nausea and headache. If left untreated, it can cause seizures, coma and can be a life-threatening condition.

– Sunburn : Bare skin burns if exposed too much to the sun, especially at high temperatures. It may become red, painful and warm to the touch. If the burn is severe, it may blister. In the long term, sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer. Prevention of sunburn is done with clothes, hats and sunscreen with a protection factor of at least 30.

When experiencing any health changes that are out of the ordinary, it is important to contact a pharmacist or a doctor immediately.