Sommerhitze in Oldenburg – 12 Tipps

The height of summer doesn't just arrive in Oldenburg an der Haaren. Lots of people are delighted about it, while others struggle with the heat. There are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself, whether you love the season or not - and this applies not only in Oldenburg in Niedersachsen with its nearly 170 thousand residents.

You might already know some of these tips, but others may be new to you and could prove very useful. Knowing the answers to dealing with high temperatures in Oldenburg is good, but it's pointless if you don't put them into practice.

Our 12 tips for hot summer days:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids is actually pretty obvious: when you're out and about in summer, it's very important to drink a lot, especially water. Drinking plenty of water is essential because it replenishes the minerals and fluids your body loses through sweating.

Heat exhaustion or cramps can otherwise result. Herbal teas and unsweetened fruit juices can help maintain your fluid balance, but water is still the best choice in summer. Sugary drinks such as fizzy drinks can intensify the feeling of dehydration, so they're not recommended during summer.

2. Avoid the midday sun

You should definitely avoid the sun between 12 noon and 3pm, as this is when it's at its strongest. Wear a cap and stay in the shade during this time.

Bear this in mind when planning your day - it's better to go for a walk in the evening or morning rather than at midday. Physically demanding activities can be saved for the cooler times of day.

3. Dress appropriately

Your clothing should cover as much of your body as possible and should be light-coloured, loose-fitting and lightweight. This way, you'll be protected and cool at the same time.

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

You should avoid synthetic fibres such as polyester, as these will only make you hotter since they don't absorb sweat. The more often you change your clothes, the better it is for you in terms of dealing with sweat. Summer arrives faster than you expect - so stock up in good time!

4. Air out your house/flat

When it's cooler outside, open your doors and windows. However, make sure no insects come in with the fresh air.

You can cool your home using wet towels in front of the windows or a fan. Flats facing south or those in attic spaces can heat up very quickly.

5. Switch off electrical devices

TVs, computers and other devices continue to generate heat even in standby mode. As long as nobody's using them, you should unplug them.

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

6. Dry your washing outdoors ...

... if you have a garden or a larger balcony. Damp washing increases the humidity indoors. The body perceives this as warmer than dry air. Washing dries faster outside in hot weather anyway.

7. Don't overeat

Large meals make you sluggish, which only makes you sweat more. It's therefore smarter to eat several small meals throughout the day. Since lengthy digestion can leave you feeling uncomfortable, you should avoid fatty meals. Luckily, simple dishes tend to taste better in summer anyway - though there are always exceptions.

8. Don't forget sun protection

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

Always apply sunscreen with a high SPF before heading outdoors, even on cloudy days. Especially at outdoor pools, you should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours.

9. Air-conditioned spaces

On really hot days, it can help to take a break in a cooler space from time to time to cool down. This could be various places: the library, the supermarket, or your own home, as long as it has air conditioning or a cellar.

10. Watch out - alcohol

You should avoid alcoholic drinks in summer, as alcohol has a dehydrating effect. If you do drink alcohol, make sure to order a glass of water with every alcoholic drink.

You should also bear in mind that alcohol tends to make you generally less careful: we've all lost track of time at some point because of it.

11. Think of your fellow Oldenburgers

Think of others, not just yourself.

Hot weather can be really dangerous for young children, older people or those with chronic illnesses: in everyday life, you should watch out for headaches, nausea, vomiting or dizziness, as these are signs of heat exhaustion.

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

12. In cars

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

This issue is still dramatically underestimated and downplayed, and sometimes simply forgotten. For both animals and people, it can be life-threatening to be stuck in a car for too long on hot days, as the temperature can rise to very high levels within minutes.

More tips for the Nordwest metropolitan region

These are the most important pieces of information to help you stay safe and enjoy the summer. We've put together some more tips for you:

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

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

• Avoid cooking by preparing cold meals or snacks in advance.

• Keep the heat outside by closing your curtains or blinds.

• Take a cold bath or cold shower before bed so you can sleep better.

• Try to avoid exercising in the heat - no matter how tempting it might be, apart from going for a swim.

If you follow this advice, you should be able to enjoy Oldenburg's summer heat without too much discomfort, for example at OLantis Huntebad - ErlebnisWelt.

Eating ice cream is always a great idea, and it's even better if you can sit comfortably outside in the shade.

Have fun and stay cool