12 Tips Against the Heat in Marburg

High summer is coming, not just in Marburg an der Lahn. Many people struggle with the summer, but just as many look forward to the heat. Either way, whether you enjoy summer or not, there are a few simple measures you can take to protect yourself and make life easier – not just in Marburg in Hessen, with its population of around 75,000.

You might already know some of these measures, but others may still be unfamiliar and can be very helpful. Knowing about the dangers of high temperatures in Marburg, being aware of the helpful solutions, and actually following them are two different things.

Our 12 tips for beating the summer heat:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids is very important and actually quite logical: if you're out and about in the summer heat, it's essential to drink a lot, mainly water. This is important because when you sweat, you lose not only water but also minerals from your body.

This can result in cramps or heat exhaustion. Unsweetened fruit juices and herbal teas can help maintain your fluid balance, but water is still best in summer. Sugary drinks like fizzy pop can intensify the feeling of dehydration, which is why they're not recommended in summer.

2. Avoid the midday sun

Between 12 noon and 3pm, you should definitely avoid the sun, as it shines at its strongest during this time. During these hours, you should wear a hat or stay in the shade.

Bear this in mind when planning your day – it's better to go for walks in the evening or morning rather than at midday. You can certainly postpone physically demanding activities to a cooler time of day.

3. Wear suitable clothing

Wear light, loose, pale-coloured clothing that covers as much of your body as possible. This keeps you protected and cool at the same time.

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

Synthetic fibres such as polyester should be avoided, as these materials don't absorb sweat, which makes you feel even hotter. You should change your clothes more often because of sweating. Stock up in good time, as the heat arrives faster than you might think.

4. Always air out your home

Open windows and doors when it's cooler outside than inside. Just make sure you don't let any small creatures in.

You can cool rooms down by hanging wet towels in front of windows or using a fan. Loft flats or those facing south can heat up very quickly.

5. Switch off electrical appliances

PCs, televisions and other devices continue to generate heat even in standby mode. If you're not using them, you should unplug them.

You should also avoid charging electronic devices on hot days – this can easily be put off until night-time.

6. Dry your washing outdoors ...

... in a garden or on a large balcony. Damp washing increases humidity levels indoors. This is perceived by the body as hotter than dry air. In warm temperatures, washing dries faster outdoors anyway.

7. Don't eat too much

Eating a lot makes you very sluggish, which then makes you sweat even more. It's therefore better to eat small meals more often throughout the day. Fatty meals take longer to digest, which can make you feel uncomfortable. Handily, we tend to prefer quick meals in summer anyway – exceptions prove the rule.

8. Don't forget sun protection

UV rays damage your skin, leading to premature skin ageing and an increased risk of skin cancer!

Sunscreen with a high SPF is essential as soon as you go outside, no matter how cloudy it is. Apply sunscreen every two hours or more often, especially if you're at the swimming pool.

9. Take cool breaks in air-conditioned rooms

On really hot days, it can be wise to take a break in an air-conditioned room from time to time to cool down. This could be the library, a shop, or even your own home if you have air conditioning or a cellar.

10. Be careful with alcohol

Alcoholic drinks shouldn't be consumed, as alcohol has a dehydrating effect. For every alcoholic drink, you should order at least one glass of water.

The effects of alcohol can also make you careless: everyone has lost track of time at some point because of it.

11. Think of others

You need to think of others too.

Warm weather is particularly dangerous for people with chronic illnesses, small children or the elderly. Watch out for symptoms of heat exhaustion such as vomiting, dizziness, headaches or nausea in those around you.

If you notice these symptoms in someone, help if you can!

12. Enclosed vehicles in summer

Don't leave your children or pets in parked cars: temperatures in cars parked in the shade can rise quickly even on mild days!

Year after year, this issue is still dramatically underestimated and played down, sometimes even simply forgotten. On hot days, the temperature in an enclosed vehicle can reach life-threatening levels within minutes – for both animals and people!

A few tips for the Mittelhessen region

This information will help you get through the summer well while also enjoying it. A few more tips follow here:

• Portable fans or misters are a good investment for summer, as you can use them again next year.

• Eliminate all sources of heat and make sure your home is well ventilated.

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

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

• A cold shower or cold bath before bed helps you sleep better.

• Apart from swimming, you shouldn't do any sport in the heat.

With these tips, you should get through the summer heat well in Marburg, especially at the Aquamar Sport- und Freizeitbad.

An excellent idea is to go out for ice cream, especially if you can sit outdoors in the shade.

Have fun and stay cool!