How to Survive a Heatwave

Safety, Infrastructure Impact, and Practical Precautions

Heatwaves, once rare in some regions, are now becoming a more frequent occurrence due to shifting climate patterns. The implications of these extreme temperatures extend beyond mere discomfort, impacting infrastructure, public services, and the health of vulnerable populations. For those in regions unaccustomed to such conditions, like the Nordic countries, the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke is particularly high. This article will explore the effects of heatwaves on infrastructure, offer advice on how to stay safe, and provide practical precautions to mitigate the risks.

Impact of Heatwaves on Infrastructure

Public Transport

Heatwaves place immense pressure on infrastructure, particularly public transport. High temperatures can lead to the failure of air-conditioning systems in buses and trains, turning them into mobile saunas and creating unbearable conditions for passengers. Rail networks are especially vulnerable, as tracks can expand under extreme heat, causing speed restrictions, delays, and even cancellations. Travellers should be advised to check service updates before embarking on any journey and to consider whether travel is truly necessary during peak heat periods.

Emergency Services

Heatwaves do not just overheat cars and melt ice creams; they also push our emergency services to their limits. Hospitals and clinics are likely to experience a surge in patients due to heat-related illnesses, including dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke. Emergency services may also be stretched thin, which could lead to longer response times. It t is vital to take preventive measures seriously to avoid adding unnecessary strain to these critical services.

Water Supply

With everyone scrambling to stay hydrated, water becomes liquid gold. Increased water consumption during heatwaves can strain water supplies, leading to low pressure and even restrictions in some areas. This is particularly concerning in regions unaccustomed to such demand. Water companies may impose usage restrictions to conserve resources, so it is crucial to conserve water where possible, using it responsibly to avoid further strain on the supply network.

It is wise to prepare for potential water supply issues by buying and storing extra water in advance. Keep enough bottled water on hand for drinking, cooking, and basic hygiene needs. Aim to store at least one gallon (approximately 4 litres) per person per day, and plan for at least a three-day supply. This will ensure you have access to safe drinking water if restrictions are imposed or if the local water supply is temporarily disrupted.

Electrical Energy Supply

As the heat intensifies, so does our reliance on air conditioning. This surge in electricity demand puts the entire power grid under immense pressure. Transformers and other critical components of the power supply infrastructure are at risk of overheating, which can lead to failures and power outages. This not only affects homes and businesses but can also disrupt essential services such as hospitals and public transport. To keep the lights on, it is a good idea to conserve energy where possible and have a contingency plan in case the grid finally gives in to the heat.

In preparation for potential power outages, ensure you have flashlights at hand with extra batteries to provide light when needed. It is also wise to keep candles and matches available as a backup lighting source. Additionally, fully charge powerbanks in advance so that you can recharge your mobile phones and stay connected even if the power goes out. Having these items ready can help you stay safe and maintain communication during a blackout.

IT Infrastructure

Heatwaves can also have a significant impact on IT infrastructure, particularly server farms and data centres. These facilities rely heavily on cooling systems to maintain optimal operating temperatures. During a heatwave, the increased ambient temperature can overwhelm these cooling systems, leading to overheating servers. This can result in slower processing speeds, data loss, or even complete system failures, which can have far-reaching consequences for businesses and services that rely on these systems. So, do not be surprised if you cannot log in or, worse, cannot complain about it on Twitter.

Internet outages might occur if local IT infrastructure is affected by the heat. Prepare by downloading essential content in advance, such as educational videos or games for children, to keep them occupied if the internet goes down. Having non-digital activities planned, like board games or crafts, can also be helpful.

Fire Hazards

If the oppressive heat is not enough, there is the added danger of wildfires. Dry vegetation turns into kindling, and before you know it, grass and forest fires are racing across the landscape, threatening homes, wildlife, and lives. It is vital to avoid any activities that could spark a fire, such as outdoor grilling or the improper disposal of cigarette butts. Everyone should be mindful of fire hazards, avoid outdoor burning, and report any signs of fire immediately.

Vehicle Maintenance and Safety Tips During a Heatwave

As the sun blazes down during a heatwave, stepping into your vehicle can feel like entering an oven. To ensure both your safety and the efficiency of your car's systems, it is essential to follow a few key steps.

When you unlock your vehicle, resist the urge to jump in immediately. Instead, take a moment to open all the doors or windows. Allowing the scorching air trapped inside to escape for a minute or two can significantly reduce the internal temperature, making the environment far more tolerable.

If you are driving an older car, be mindful of the strain that high temperatures place on your vehicle's battery and alternator. When you first start the engine, it is wise to keep the air conditioning off initially. Doing so reduces the immediate demand on these components, helping to prevent overconsumption of power and reducing the risk of a start failure. However, in modern vehicles, this precaution is not necessary, as they are designed to handle the simultaneous starting of the engine and air conditioning without undue strain.

Once you are inside, be cautious with your hands. Surfaces like the steering wheel, seatbelt buckles, and seats can be dangerously hot. Sunshades can be a simple yet effective tool to protect these surfaces when you park, minimising heat build-up and keeping the interior more comfortable.

After a few minutes of running the engine, as the air inside the cabin begins to cool, you can enhance the cooling process by switching to the recirculation mode on your air conditioning. This setting helps maintain the cooler air inside the vehicle rather than pulling in hot air from outside, allowing the cabin to cool down more efficiently.

Vehicles are highly susceptible to damage in extreme heat, which can compromise both the vehicle's functionality and safety. Here are some crucial maintenance and safety tips to follow during a heatwave:

Monitor Tire Pressure

High temperatures cause the air inside them to expand, increasing the risk of a blowout. Regularly checking and adjusting your tire pressure according to the manufacturer's recommendations is essential. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires are more likely to fail, so keeping them properly inflated is not just important - it is critical

Check Fluids Regularly

Ensure your vehicle's fluids, including coolant, oil, and transmission fluid, are topped up and in good condition. These fluids are critical for keeping your engine cool and preventing overheating. Additionally, ensure your air-conditioning system is fully functional, as it will be under extra stress during a heatwave.

Regularly Inspect Your Battery

Extreme heat can shorten your battery's lifespan. Ensure that your battery is in good condition and check for any signs of corrosion or wear. Testing your battery before the peak of summer might save you from an unexpected breakdown.

Carry Extra Water

Water is your ally in the battle against the heat, not just for you and your passengers, but for your vehicle as well. Carry extra water at all times. In the event of a breakdown, having enough water can be lifesaving, especially if you find yourself stranded with no immediate help. Your vehicle, too, might need additional coolant if it overheats.

Be Prepared for Emergencies

Emergencies can happen at any time, and being prepared can turn a potentially dangerous situation into a minor inconvenience. Keep an emergency kit in your vehicle, complete with essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, power bank, and a basic toolkit. During a heatwave, an umbrella, sunshades, or an emergency reflective blanket (Mylar) can provide much-needed shade while you wait for help, making the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious situation.

Expect Delays and Plan Accordingly

Heatwaves often lead to increased stress on public infrastructure, including roads and highways. Expect delays due to potential road closures, accidents, or vehicles breaking down from overheating. Plan your journeys with extra time to spare, and consider travelling during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.

Avoid Washing Your Car During Peak Heat

Finally, resist the urge to wash your car during the peak heat of the day. The sudden temperature changes from cold water hitting hot surfaces can cause your windscreen to crack or existing cracks to expand. Early morning or evening is a better time to care for your vehicle’s appearance without risking further damage.

Staying Safe During a Heatwave

Dress for the Weather

What you wear can significantly affect how your body handles the heat, particularly in professional settings where formal attire is often required. For those working in offices, opt for suits made from lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or seersucker. These materials help absorb sweat and allow for better air circulation, which is crucial for maintaining comfort and preventing overheating.

Choose light colours for your suits, as they reflect heat rather than absorb it, keeping you cooler throughout the day. When it comes to footwear, breathable leather shoes can help prevent your feet from overheating and becoming uncomfortable. Avoid heavy, non-breathable shoes that can trap heat and moisture.

For your commute, having a change of clothing can be beneficial. Wear something lighter and more casual while travelling to and from the office, and change into your work attire upon arrival. This approach helps you stay cool during your commute and ensures that you start your day feeling fresh and comfortable. It is also advisable to wear a wide-brimmed hat. This will protect your head and face from direct sunlight, reducing the risk of sunburn, which can impede your body's ability to cool itself. Carry a bottle of water and stay hydrated throughout your commute to maintain your body’s ability to cool down.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Smart

Staying hydrated is essential during a heatwave. Drink water consistently throughout the day to replace the fluids lost through sweat. In addition to water, include foods with high water content, such as cucumbers, melons, and leafy greens, which not only help with hydration but also provide essential vitamins and minerals.

Replenishing electrolytes is equally important, as these minerals are lost through sweating and are crucial for maintaining bodily functions like muscle contractions and nerve signalling. You can replenish electrolytes by drinking beverages enhanced with these minerals or by consuming foods rich in sodium, potassium, and magnesium, such as bananas, spinach, and coconut water.

Avoid heavy meals, particularly those high in carbohydrates and protein, as they require more energy to digest, which can increase your body’s internal temperature. Instead, opt for lighter, more easily digestible foods that help you stay cool.

Limit alcohol consumption, as it can lead to dehydration by increasing urine output and disrupting your body's ability to regulate temperature. In a heatwave, this can be particularly dangerous, so it is best to minimize alcohol intake and prioritize hydration.

Adjust Your Daily Routine

Plan your activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day, typically between 11:00 and 15:00. If outdoor work or exercise is necessary, do it early in the morning or late in the evening when it is cooler. Take frequent breaks in shaded areas to avoid overheating.

Protect the Vulnerable

In the sweltering heat, certain groups are particularly vulnerable, and it falls upon us to take extra precautions to protect them. Infants, for example, are especially sensitive to high temperatures. These little ones should always be kept out of direct sunlight and given plenty of fluids. For babies under six months, this means breast milk or formula, which should be offered more frequently than usual. Dress them in lightweight, loose-fitting clothing, and whenever they are outside, ensure they are in the shade, shielded from the sun's harsh rays.

The elderly, too, need special attention. As temperatures rise, it is essential to check on them regularly, ensuring they remain hydrated and cool. Encourage them to drink water frequently, even if they do not feel thirsty, and advise against consuming alcohol and caffeinated beverages, which can lead to dehydration.

In addition to these vulnerable groups, wild swimmers should also exercise caution during heatwaves. Every year, there are tragic incidents where people seek to cool off in lakes, rivers, or the sea, only to encounter dangerous currents, cold shock, or exhaustion, leading to fatalities. Always choose safe, supervised swimming areas, avoid swimming alone, and be mindful of your limits to prevent accidents.

As the thermometer climbs, everyone should be on the lookout for signs of heat-related illnesses. Heat exhaustion can creep up on you, with symptoms like heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and headaches. If not addressed, it can escalate to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition that demands immediate medical attention. If you suspect someone is suffering from heatstroke, act quickly—move them to a cooler place, apply cool water to lower their body temperature, and seek emergency help without delay.

During the peak heat of the day, typically between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., it is wise to stay indoors, especially for those most at risk. If you must venture outside, equip yourself with a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen with a high SPF to protect against the sun's harmful effects.

But it is not just humans who struggle in the heat—our furry friends also face significant challenges. Dogs, in particular, find it difficult to cope with extreme temperatures. Never leave pets in cars or confined spaces like conservatories, where temperatures can soar dangerously high within minutes. Instead, walk your dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when it is cooler, and always ensure they have access to plenty of water and shade throughout the day. Consider laying out a cooling mat or damp to

Managing Heat at Home

Keep your home cool by closing blinds or curtains during the day, particularly on windows exposed to direct sunlight. At night, take advantage of natural airflows and open windows to allow cooler air to circulate. Create cross-ventilation in your home by opening windows on opposite sides of the house. This encourages a breeze to flow through, helping to expel hot air and replace it with cooler, fresher air. To further circulate cool air, make use of fans, and for an added cooling boost, drape a damp cloth over the fan. As the air passes through the wet cloth, it will carry a refreshing chill that can make a noticeable difference.

When it comes to cooling your body, be cautious with cold showers. While they might feel instantly refreshing, cold showers can actually cause your pores to close reducing the amount of sweat your body produces and ultimately making it harder to cool off. Instead, opt for a lukewarm shower. This will cool you gradually and help your body maintain its ability to cool itself effectively.

If possible, sleep with lightweight sheets, and if the night is particularly sweltering, consider sleeping alone to reduce the amount of body heat in the bed. For an extra cooling touch, pop your sheets or pillowcases in the freezer for a few minutes before bed, or use a cooling gel pillow.

My final thoughts

As heatwaves become more frequent, it is crucial to take proactive steps to stay safe and protect our infrastructure. The impact of extreme heat goes beyond discomfort, putting a strain on public transport, energy supplies, and healthcare systems. By staying informed and adjusting our daily routines, we can mitigate these effects and safeguard our well-being.

Remember, it is not just about enduring the heat but about making smart choices. Dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and plan your activities to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Keep your home cool, be mindful of vulnerable populations, and ensure your pets are safe.

Proper Prior Planning Prevents Poor Performance — whether it is readying your home, maintaining your vehicle, or simply being aware of the risks. By taking these steps, you contribute to a collective effort to navigate heatwaves safely and effectively. So, as the temperature rises, let us face the heatwave with confidence and care, ensuring we all stay safe, healthy, and cool.