What to Do About the Summer Heat in Potsdam?

Not just in Potsdam on the Havel is the height of summer approaching. Many people struggle with the heat, but just as many look forward to it. Regardless of whether you like summer or not, there are a few simple measures you can take to protect yourself and make life easier - not just in Potsdam in Brandenburg, with its nearly 180,000 residents.

You might already know some of these tips, but others are new and can be very helpful. Knowing about the dangers of high temperatures in Potsdam and knowing the solutions are two different things.

12 tips for the hot summer:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking enough is very important and actually quite logical: during the summer, it's important to drink plenty of water, especially if you're spending time outdoors. When you sweat, you lose not only water but also minerals, which is why it's essential to replenish these by drinking regularly.

The effects of not doing so can include cramps or heat exhaustion. Unsweetened fruit juices and herbal teas can help maintain your fluid balance, but water is still best in summer. Fizzy drinks and other sugary beverages actually intensify the feeling of dehydration.

2. Avoid the midday sun

The sun is strongest around midday, so you should avoid it between 12pm and 3pm. During this time, you should stay in the shade or wear a hat.

It's very important to plan your day well, so go for walks in the morning or evening instead of at midday when it's so hot. Strenuous physical activities can certainly wait until cooler times of day.

3. Dress appropriately

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

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

Avoid synthetic fibres such as polyester, as these don't absorb sweat and can make you feel even warmer. The more changes of clothes, the better - because of sweating. Summer arrives faster than expected - so stock up early!

4. Air out your flat/house

When it's cooler outside, open the windows and doors. You should keep insects from getting in.

You can also cool your rooms by hanging wet towels in front of the windows or using an electric fan. It gets particularly warm in attic flats or flats facing south.

5. Switch off electrical devices

Constant heat is generated by electrical devices such as PCs or televisions. Always switch off electronic devices completely when they're not in use.

On warm days, it's better to charge your devices at night.

6. Dry your washing outdoors ...

... if you have a garden or a larger balcony. High humidity is created by wet washing indoors. The body perceives this as hotter than dry air. Clothing dries faster outdoors in warm temperatures anyway.

7. Don't eat too much

Eating a lot makes you sweat even more and makes you tired. It's smarter to eat several small meals spread throughout the day. Since you might not feel comfortable during long digestive processes, you should avoid fatty foods. Conveniently, we tend to prefer lighter dishes in summer anyway - exceptions prove the rule.

8. Never forget sun protection

UV rays increase your risk of skin cancer and cause irreparable damage to your skin. Premature skin ageing - age spots and wrinkles - are also consequences of UV rays. Don't forget - your skin never forgets!

You should apply sunscreen with a high SPF as soon as you go outside, even on cloudy days. It's best to reapply sun protection every two hours, especially if you're at the swimming pool.

9. Take frequent breaks in air-conditioned rooms

It's helpful 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, provided it has air conditioning or a basement, or the library, as well as the supermarket.

10. Alcoholic drinks

Alcohol should be avoided, as it has a dehydrating effect. For every alcoholic drink, you should order at least one glass of water.

Additionally, the effects of alcohol make you less cautious: and everyone has lost track of time at some point because of it.

11. Think of your fellow Potsdam residents

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

Hot weather is particularly dangerous for elderly people, chronically ill people or young children. Signs of heat exhaustion include vomiting, dizziness, headaches or nausea.

If you notice these signs in someone, help as much as you can!

12. In the car

Never leave children or pets alone in parked cars: even on mild days, temperatures in parked cars can rise rapidly!

This issue is still dramatically downplayed and underestimated, and sometimes forgotten altogether. In a closed vehicle, the temperature can reach life-threatening levels within just a few minutes, for both animals and humans.

Even more tips for the Berlin-Brandenburg metropolitan region

These are the most important tips to help you enjoy summer while staying safe. Here are a few shorter tips:

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

• Heat sources should be eliminated and the flat must be well ventilated.

• When it's warm, it makes sense to prepare meals in advance, saving you the extra heat from cooking.

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

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

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

At the Bäderlandschaft Potsdam - Kiezbad Am Stern in Potsdam, you should get through the heat very well - especially if you follow this advice.

An ice cream is, of course, also a great idea, especially if you can sit outdoors in the shade while enjoying it.

Stay cool and have fun!