Heat affects our health. Severe heatwaves can result in fatalities and also visibly damage agriculture, for instance (e.g. drying out soil, cracking the earth, damaging crops).
It is reasonably easy to forecast a period of heat, so when temperatures are rising, you should keep an eye on the weather forecasts and information in the media. Find out from your local pharmacy or doctor what is recommended for dealing with the adverse effects of heat.
In addition, the following precautionary measures should be taken:
Information on the potential effects and hazard categories of heat
Excessive heat can have an adverse effect on your health, and can reduce your mental and physical abilities.
How well you cope with heat depends partly on your physical condition at the time. If you have a cold or a chronic illness, for example, this will significantly reduce your tolerance to heat. Pregnant women, small children, older people and those who are ill are more sensitive to high temperatures. Typical heat-related symptoms include dizziness, headache, exhaustion, and nausea.
After a heat period, you should take extra care of yourself and try not to achieve top athletic performances. The body needs time to readjust.
Find out from your local pharmacist or doctor what precautionary measures can be taken in order to be well prepared for the next heat period.
After a period of heat, the potential for forest fires can persist.