What to Do About the Summer Heat in Fulda?

High summer is on its way, not only in Fulda on the river Fulda. There are two groups of people: those who love it and those who struggle with the heat. Whether you're a fan of summer or not, there are a few simple measures you can take to protect yourself and make life easier - not only in Fulda in Hesse, with its nearly 70,000 residents.

You might already know some of these measures, but others may be new to you and could prove very helpful. Knowing the dangers of high summer temperatures in Fulda and being aware of the solutions is one thing, but actually following them is another matter entirely.

Our 12 tips for hot summer days:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking plenty is very important and actually quite logical: during the summer heat, you should drink lots of water, especially when you're outdoors. This is essential because when you sweat, you lose not only water but also minerals from your body.

The effects of this can include cramps or heat exhaustion. Water is best, but herbal teas and unsweetened fruit juices can also help maintain your body's water balance. Fizzy drinks and other sugary beverages can make the feeling of dehydration worse, so they're not recommended in summer.

2. Avoid the midday sun

You should definitely avoid the sun between midday and 3pm, as this is when it's at its strongest. Stay in the shade and wear a cap.

It's very important to plan your day well, so go for a walk in the morning or evening rather than at midday, when it's so warm. Physically strenuous activities can certainly wait until cooler times of day.

3. Clothing

You should wear light-coloured, lightweight and loose-fitting clothing that covers as much of your body as possible. This will both protect and cool you at the same time.

Natural fabrics such as linen, silk or cotton are best. These materials absorb sweat well and are breathable.

Artificial fabrics such as polyester should be avoided, as they don't absorb sweat, making you feel even warmer. Because of sweating, you should also change your clothes more often. Stock up early, as the heat arrives faster than expected.

4. Air out your flat/house

When it's cooler outside, open your doors and windows. However, make sure no small critters come in with the breeze.

You can cool your home with wet towels in front of the windows or with a fan. It can get very warm quickly, especially in loft flats or those facing south.

5. Switch off electrical devices

PCs, televisions and other devices also generate heat constantly, even in standby mode. As long as no one needs them, you should unplug them.

On hot days, it's better to charge your electronic devices while you sleep.

6. Dry your washing outdoors...

...if you have a larger balcony or a garden. Damp washing leads to higher humidity in your home. Your body perceives this as hotter than dry air. Outdoors, washing dries faster anyway in high temperatures.

7. Don't eat too much

A large meal makes you feel sluggish and can make you sweat even more. It's therefore smarter to eat several small meals throughout the day. Fatty dishes take longer to digest, which could make you feel uncomfortable. Light dishes tend to taste better to us in summer anyway, as the exceptions generally prove the rule.

8. Never forget sun protection

Premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer are caused by UV radiation. Don't forget - your skin never forgets!

So always apply sunscreen with a high SPF before heading outside, even on days that aren't sunny. It's best to reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you're at the outdoor pool.

9. Cool breaks in air-conditioned rooms

It helps to take a break in an air-conditioned room now and then to cool down on a really hot day. This could be your own home, as long as it has a cellar or air conditioning, or a shop or the library.

10. Watch out - alcohol

Alcohol should be avoided, as it has a dehydrating effect. If you do drink, make sure to have a glass of water with every alcoholic drink.

You should also bear in mind that alcohol can generally make you more careless: everyone's lost track of time this way at some point.

11. Fellow residents of Fulda

Don't just think of yourself, but also of those around you.

Hot weather can be genuinely dangerous for young children, older people or those with chronic illnesses: keep an eye out for vomiting, dizziness, headaches or nausea in the people around you, as these are signs of heat exhaustion.

If someone shows these signs, help as much as you can!

12. In cars

Never leave your pets or children alone in parked cars: even on mild days, the temperature inside a parked car can rise quickly!

This issue is still dramatically downplayed and underestimated, and sometimes simply forgotten. On very hot days, the temperature inside a closed vehicle can reach life-threatening levels within minutes - for both animals and humans!

More tips for the Osthessen region

If you want to get through summer well and enjoy it, read and follow this advice. Here are a few more tips:

• It's a smart idea to buy a few portable fans or misters, as you can reuse these every year.

• Sources of heat should be removed and your home should be well ventilated.

• Prepare cold dishes or snacks in advance so you don't have to cook when it's too hot.

• To keep the heat out, keep your curtains or blinds closed during the day.

• To sleep better, it's best to take a cold bath or a cold shower beforehand.

• Avoid exercising in the heat, however hard it may be - except for swimming, of course.

At the Freibad Rosenau in Fulda, you should get through summer just fine - especially if you follow these tips.

Going for an ice cream is a great idea, especially if you can sit outside in the shade.

Stay cool and have fun!