What to Do About the Summer Heat in Wolfsburg?

Midsummer is coming, and not just in Wolfsburg on the Aller. There are two groups of people: those who love it and those who struggle with the summer. There are a few simple steps you can take to protect yourself, whether you love summer or not — and this applies not just in Wolfsburg in Lower Saxony with its roughly 125 thousand residents.

You might already know some of these tips, but others may still be unfamiliar to you and can be very helpful. Knowing the solutions to the high summer temperatures in Wolfsburg is all well and good, but it's pointless if you don't actually put them into practice.

Our 12 tips against the summer heat:

1. Drink plenty of fluids

This is really a given: in the summer heat, it's important to drink plenty of water, especially if you're spending time in the sun. This is essential because when you sweat, you lose not only water but also minerals from your body.

This can lead to sunstroke, heatstroke, cramps or heat exhaustion. Water is actually the best choice, but herbal teas and unsweetened fruit juices are also helpful for maintaining your body's water balance. Fizzy drinks and other sugary beverages can intensify the feeling of dehydration, which is why they're not recommended in summer.

2. Avoid the midday sun

You should definitely avoid the sun between midday and 3pm, as this is when it's at its strongest. During this time, you should wear a cap or stay in the shade.

It's very important to plan your day well, so go for a walk in the evening or morning instead of during the hot midday period. It's best to save strenuous physical activities for a time when temperatures have already dropped a little.

3. Clothing

Wear loose, light, pale-coloured clothing that covers as much of your body as possible. This protects you from harmful sun rays while keeping you cool.

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

You should avoid synthetic fibres such as polyester, as these fabrics don't absorb sweat and will only make you feel warmer. The more often you change your clothes, the better — because of the sweat. Stock up in good time, as the heat arrives faster than you'd think.

4. Air out your house/flat

Open the doors and windows, but only when it's cooler outside than inside. However, make sure no insects come in with the breeze.

You can also cool your rooms by hanging damp towels in front of the windows or using an electric fan. It can get particularly hot in attic flats or those facing south.

5. Switch off electronic devices

Even in standby mode, TVs, computers and other electrical devices continuously generate heat. You should therefore unplug these devices completely when they're not in use.

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

6. Dry your washing outdoors ...

... in a garden or on a large balcony. Wet washing leads to increased humidity in your rooms. The body perceives this as hotter than dry air. Clothes also dry faster outdoors in warm temperatures anyway.

7. Don't eat too much

A large meal will leave you feeling sluggish and can make you sweat even more. It's therefore better to eat several small meals throughout the day. Since long digestive processes can leave you feeling uncomfortable, you should avoid fatty dishes. Of course, there are exceptions, but generally we tend to enjoy simpler meals more in summer.

8. Sun protection is important

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

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

9. Take a break in air-conditioned spaces

It's a smart idea to take a break in a cooler room every now and then to cool down on a really hot day. This can be various places: the supermarket, the library, or your own home, as long as it has a cellar or air conditioning.

10. Alcoholic drinks

You should avoid alcohol, as it has a dehydrating effect. If you do drink alcoholic beverages, make sure to always have a glass of water alongside them.

What's more, alcohol makes you less cautious: everyone has lost track of time at some point because of it.

11. Think of others

Think of others too, not just yourself.

The hot weather is even more dangerous for older people, those with chronic illnesses, or young children. Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness, headaches, nausea or vomiting.

As soon as these signs are noticed, help if you possibly can!

12. In cars

Don't leave your pets or children in parked cars: the temperature inside a car parked in the shade can rise by the minute, even on mild days!

This issue is still dramatically downplayed and underestimated, and sometimes simply forgotten. It's dangerous for both animals and people to be stuck too long in a closed vehicle on hot days, as the temperature rises to very high levels within minutes.

A few tips for the Braunschweig region

If you want to enjoy the summer and get through it well, read and follow this information. Here are a few more tips:

• Invest in a few portable fans or misters — this expense is worthwhile, as you can reuse the devices next summer.

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

• When it's hot, it's a good idea to prepare your meals in advance, saving you the extra heat from the cooker.

• To keep the heat out, keep your blinds or curtains 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 summer.

At the VW-Bad in Wolfsburg you should get through the summer heat very well — especially if you follow this information.

An ice cream is also, of course, an excellent idea, especially if you can sit outside in the shade while enjoying it.

Always stay cool and have fun!