Key points:
  • Early morning work is recommended in extreme heat.
  • Consistent hydration through small sips is crucial.
  • Cooling methods like wetting clothes or applying ice towels can provide relief.
Early Morning Work to Beat the HeatLuis Pacherrez Antón is president of Agroperu Cooperative, a democratic collective of 102 small-scale farmers in the Chira River valley, Peru. Based in Piura, known as 'the city of eternal heat' because it stays hot and dry all year round, he shares insights from his work cultivating crops under burning sun conditions. He advises starting tasks early when the sun rays start shining very early—by 9am—and consuming local produce like bananas, oranges, lemons, grapes, papayas, and avocados for cooling benefits. Pacherrez Antón explains that these fruits not only offer hydration but also provide a natural resistance to the harsh heat.Adjusting Schedules in Extreme HeatObada Almaitah, a diving instructor and course director in Aqaba, Jordan, emphasizes the importance of scheduling physically demanding tasks during cooler morning hours due to summer temperatures that regularly reach 40°C and can exceed this during heatwaves. This strategy helps workers avoid the intense heat later in the day when temperatures soar. Almaitah notes that in such conditions, it is crucial to prioritize work early and avoid unnecessary exposure.Consistent Hydration Is KeyEgyptian archaeologist Dr Zahi Hawass highlights the importance of drinking water regularly, especially during prolonged exposure to the sun and high temperatures. He warns against waiting until you feel thirsty before consuming fluids, as thirst is a late sign of dehydration. During an intense heatwave two years ago, which lasted for two weeks, he experienced firsthand the effects of extreme heat on work productivity and health.Cooling Techniques to Stay ComfortableLuis Eduardo Dos Santos Nascimento, a lifeguard from Rio de Janeiro, stresses the importance of keeping a water bottle nearby during shifts. He advises using practical methods like lightly wetting clothes or applying ice towels around the neck for quick cooling. Dr Youssouf Moussa from Djibouti suggests using damp cloths on exposed body parts to aid in evaporation and cooling. He explains that these techniques can be particularly useful when temperatures soar, as they recently did with a 53°C heat alert.Additional Tips for Extreme HeatFederica Salvo from Sicily advises adjusting meal times during hot periods. She explains that in extreme heat, light, water-rich foods are preferred over heavy meals, which can lead to excessive sweating and discomfort. Carmen Vallejo Carmona in Seville recommends delaying lunch until late afternoon or early evening when the worst of the heat has passed. Her diet includes salads and cold dishes like gazpacho and marinated anchovies.ConclusionThe strategies shared by these individuals highlight the importance of adapting to extreme heat through careful planning, consistent hydration, and practical cooling methods. These tips can help ensure comfort and safety during prolonged periods of high temperatures across various climates around the world. By following such advice, people can maintain their health and productivity even in the hottest conditions.

Source: The Guardian

Beat the Heat: Practical Tips from Around the Globe
Beat the Heat: Practical Tips from Around the Globe

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