Was tun gegen die Sommerhitze in Reutlingen?

Midsummer is on its way, not just in Reutlingen am Neckar. Some people struggle with the heat, while just as many look forward to summer. But whether you enjoy the summer or not, there are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself and make life easier – not just in Reutlingen in Baden-Württemberg, with its nearly 120 thousand inhabitants.

You'll probably already know many of these, while others may be new and helpful. Knowing the dangers of high temperatures in Reutlingen and knowing the solutions to them are two different things.

12 tips for the hot summer:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

Drinking plenty is really just common sense: when you're outside in the summer heat, it's very important to drink a lot, especially water. Drinking plenty is essential because it replenishes the fluids and minerals your body loses through sweating.

The result of not doing so can be cramps or heat exhaustion. Unsweetened fruit juices and herbal teas can help stabilise your fluid balance, but water is still best in summer. The feeling of dehydration is actually made worse by sugary drinks such as lemonade.

2. Avoid the midday sun

Avoid the midday sun, as it's strongest between 12 noon and 3pm. Stay in the shade and wear a hat.

It's very important to plan your day well, so it's better to go for a walk in the morning or evening rather than at midday, when it's so hot. It's best to postpone strenuous physical activities until temperatures have dropped a little.

3. Clothing

You should wear loose, light and pale-coloured clothing that covers as much of your body as possible. This keeps you cool while protecting you from dangerous UV rays.

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

Synthetic fabrics such as polyester should be avoided, as they don't absorb sweat, which makes you feel even warmer. Because of sweating, you should also change your clothes more often. Stock up in good time, as the heat arrives faster than you'd think.

4. Air out your flat/house

When it's cooler outside, open the doors and windows. However, make sure no insects get in.

You can also cool your home by hanging wet towels in front of the windows or using an electric fan. Loft flats or flats facing south can heat up very quickly.

5. Switch off electrical devices

TVs, computers and other devices also generate heat constantly, even in standby mode. That's why you should switch off electronic devices completely whenever they're not needed.

You should also avoid charging devices on hot days – this can simply be shifted to night-time.

6. Dry your washing outdoors ...

... if you have a garden or a larger balcony. Damp washing increases the humidity in your rooms, which the body perceives as hotter than dry air. Outdoors, clothes dry faster anyway in warm temperatures.

7. Don't eat too much

A large meal makes you sweat even more and leaves you feeling sluggish. It's better to eat several small meals throughout the day. Also avoid fatty meals, as these take longer to digest and could leave you feeling uncomfortable. Exceptions prove the rule that lighter dishes tend to taste better to us in summer.

8. Never forget sun protection

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

You should apply sunscreen with a high SPF whenever you go outside, even on cloudy days. Especially at the outdoor pool, you should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours.

9. Air-conditioned spaces

It's a smart idea to take a break in an air-conditioned room every now and then to cool down on a really hot day. This could be your own home, provided it has a cellar or air conditioning, or the library, or even the supermarket.

10. Watch out – alcohol

Alcoholic drinks should be avoided, as alcohol has a dehydrating effect. For every alcoholic drink, you should have at least one glass of water.

What's more, the effects of alcohol make you careless: we've all lost track of time because of it at some point.

11. Look out for your fellow Reutlingen residents

You also need to think of the people around you.

Hot weather is even more dangerous for elderly people, those with chronic illnesses or young children. Keep an eye out for dizziness, headaches, nausea or vomiting in those around you, as these are signs of heat exhaustion.

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

12. In cars

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

This issue is still dramatically downplayed and underestimated, and sometimes forgotten altogether. On very hot days, the temperature inside a closed vehicle can reach dangerous levels within a very short time – for both people and animals!

More tips for the Neckar-Alb region

This information will help you get through summer well while also enjoying it. Here are a few more tips:

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

• Make sure your home is well ventilated and see that all unnecessary sources of heat are eliminated.

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

• Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day to keep the heat out.

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

• Avoid exercising in hot weather, even if that's not easy – except for swimming, of course.

With these tips, you should get through the summer heat in Reutlingen just fine, especially at the Wellenfreibad Reutlingen.

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

Have fun and stay cool!