12 Tips Against the Heat in Osnabrück

High summer doesn't only arrive in Osnabrück on the Hase. There are two types of people: those who love it, and those who struggle with the summer months. But whether you enjoy this season or not, there are a few simple measures you can take to protect yourself and make life a little easier – not just in Osnabrück in Niedersachsen, with its almost 165 thousand residents.

Many of these tips are well known, others might be new and helpful. Knowing the solutions to the high temperatures in Osnabrück is all well and good, but it's no use if you don't put them into practice.

Our 12 tips for the hot summer:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking plenty is very important and, in fact, quite logical: if you're spending time outdoors in summer, it's essential to drink a lot, mainly water. When you sweat, you lose not only water but also minerals, which is why it's crucial to replenish these through regular drinking.

Failing to do so can result in heatstroke, sunstroke, heat exhaustion or cramps. In summer, you should mainly drink water, but unsweetened fruit juices and herbal teas can help too. Sugary drinks such as lemonade actually make the feeling of dehydration worse.

2. Avoid the midday sun

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

Bear this in mind when planning your day – for example, go for walks in the evening or morning rather than at midday. It's best to save physically demanding outings for a time when temperatures have already dropped a little.

3. Clothing

Your clothes should cover as much of your body as possible and should be light-coloured, loose and lightweight. This way, you're protected from the dangerous sun rays while still staying cool.

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

Avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester, as these don't absorb sweat and can make you feel even hotter. The more often you change clothes, the better – because of the sweat. You should prepare in good time, as the heat can catch you out faster than you'd think.

4. Always ventilate your home

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

You can cool your rooms by hanging wet towels in front of the windows or using a fan. It can get particularly warm quickly in attic flats or those facing south.

5. Switch off electrical devices

PCs, televisions and other devices generate heat constantly, even in standby mode. That's why you should switch off electronic devices completely when they're not in use.

You should also avoid charging devices on hot days – this can easily be put off until you're asleep.

6. Dry your washing outdoors ...

... if you have a garden or a larger balcony. Damp washing indoors creates high humidity, which your body perceives as warmer than dry air. In high temperatures, washing dries faster outdoors anyway.

7. Don't eat too much

A large meal will make you sweat even more and leave you feeling sluggish. It's smarter to eat several smaller meals throughout the day. Also avoid fatty meals, as these take longer to digest and could leave you feeling uncomfortable. Light meals tend to taste better in summer anyway, as is usually confirmed by the exceptions to the rule.

8. Never forget sun protection

Your skin is damaged by UV rays, which increases the risk of skin cancer and leads to premature skin ageing. Don't forget – your skin never does!

Always apply sunscreen with a high SPF before going outside, even on cloudy days. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more often, especially if you're at the swimming pool.

9. Take a break in air-conditioned rooms

To cool down, it helps to take a break in a cooler room now and then on really hot days. This could be various places: the supermarket, the library or your own home, as long as it has air conditioning or a cellar.

10. Be careful with alcohol

Alcoholic drinks should be avoided, as alcohol has a dehydrating effect. If you do drink alcohol, make sure to drink a glass of water with every alcoholic drink.

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

11. Your fellow residents in Osnabrück

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

Hot weather is even more dangerous for older people, those with chronic illnesses or young children. Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion, such as vomiting, dizziness, headaches or nausea, in those around you.

If someone shows these signs, help them if you can!

12. Cars in summer

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

Year after year, this issue is still dramatically underestimated and downplayed, sometimes simply forgotten. It's life-threatening for people and animals to be stuck in cars for too long on very warm days, as the temperature inside can rise to extremely high levels within minutes.

Even 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 a few more tips for you:

• Invest in a few portable fans or misting sprays – it's money well spent, as you can reuse the devices next summer.

• Make sure your house or flat is well ventilated and that unnecessary sources of heat are eliminated.

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

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

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

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

At the Nettebad in Osnabrück, you should get through the heat very well – especially if you follow these tips.

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

Stay cool and have fun!