In view of the heat wave in large parts of the continent, the European office of the World Health Organization (WHO) warns not to be caught unprepared by the high temperatures. Without the appropriate preparation, heat can be deadly, said WHO Europe Director Hans Kluge. On the one hand, you have to protect yourself and your fellow human beings immediately, but on the other hand, you have to take the right precautions for the future.
“Beyond adjusting to our new reality this summer, we need to look to the years and decades to come,” said the regional director. There is an urgent need for regional and global action to effectively tackle the climate crisis, which poses an existential threat to humanity. It is also crucial to involve the younger ones, who are particularly concerned with climate issues and are often bubbling over with ideas and solutions. In addition, all sides of the political spectrum must consider the fight against climate change as a bipartisan issue.
Directly related to this summer, Kluge advised a number of measures to stay as cool as possible and thus avoid the worst health consequences of the heat. One should stay away from the heat by avoiding going outside and engaging in strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day. One should keep one’s home cool, for example by leaving blinds down during the day and using the night air to cool it down. It is also important to keep the body cool and hydrated – this can be achieved with light, loose clothing, cold showers and regular drinking of water.
