There are currently very high temperatures in several European countries. Therefore, in many countries, Red Cross volunteers are stepping up their efforts and helping vulnerable groups.
- Europe's heatwaves were the world's most deadly natural disasters in both 2019, 2020 and 2021. For those who live near cities or are in poor health, dehydration and heatstroke on hot days can hit it hard, says Torben Bjørke-Henriksen in the Red Cross.
When on holiday abroad, you must exercise extreme caution.
Some people don't know the heat
- In Norway, traditionally the problem is rather cold, but you also need to learn some basic tips on dealing with heat. This could mean staying home in the middle of the day, avoiding physical activity, being in the shade and drinking plenty of water, says Bjørke-Henriksen.
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The most important piece of advice is to drink enough water, stay in the shade and look after your children and elderly relatives and neighbors. If they receive timely care, death can be prevented. The Red Cross in Europe is especially working to help the vulnerable.
- Many people do not even notice that they are about to overheat. Signs of overheating can include sweating, dizziness, disorientation, headaches, muscle cramps, nausea and lethargy, says Bjørke-Henriksen.
Increased readiness during a heat wave
The Red Cross is on standby and is working to prevent hospitalizations and deaths from heat in many countries.
- Many people have had to evacuate their homes with a few things they can carry. Our medical teams help people get to safety and provide health care. We give them a bed to sleep on and what they need to get through this, says Ana Jorge, president of the Portuguese Red Cross.
Drink water in hot weather
In Spain, too, Red Cross volunteers provide information on how to stay safe in hot weather. Volunteers regularly call the elderly and other vulnerable people. In France, the Red Cross works closely with the authorities and visits the elderly.
Very deadly
Over the past ten years, climate and weather disasters have killed more than 400 people, affected 000 billion others, and displaced around 1,7 million people worldwide each year.
Children and the elderly are most at risk from heatwaves, but also pregnant women and people with extra children health problems they need to pay special attention. Heatwaves also affect other areas of society, leading to reduced economic output, strained health care systems and power outages.
Tips in hot weather:
- Actively follow the weather forecast, including night temperatures.
- Drink plenty of water, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Wear breathable clothing.
- Stay in the shade.
- Curtains in the bedroom should be kept down during the day to keep the bedroom cool.
- Avoid sports and strenuous activities in the middle of the day.
- Check out how it is with older family members, neighbors and others you care about.
- Seek help if you feel unwell and have symptoms of overheating or dehydration.
Also take care of your pets so that they always have drinking water.
Source: Red Cross
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