The Ministry of Health recommends ten golden rules to avoid the harmful effects of high temperatures

As in previous years, the plan to protect against the health effects of high temperatures will remain in place from June 1 to September 15. During the fortnight before and the month following this period the situation will be monitored in case it is necessary to activate or reactivate the National Plan due to abnormally high temperatures.

The aim of the National Plan is to avoid or mitigate the negative effects that excessive heat can have on people's health, especially those more vulnerable or in high risk groups such as the elderly, the very young, and the chronically ill, and also anybody who works or engages in strenuous activities in the open air.

Ten golden rules

In order to minimise the harm that these people may suffer, the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality has issued a list of ten golden rules to follow:

1. Drink water or other liquids frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty and regardless of what physical activity you are doing.
2. Be careful not to drink too many beverages containing caffeine, alcohol or large amounts of sugar, since they can actually cause you to lose more body fluids.
3. While anyone can suffer heat-related problems, pay special attention to babies and young children, the elderly, and people with illnesses that may be aggravated by heat and dehydration, such as heart ailments.
4. Stay as long as you can in cool places, in the shade or with air-conditioning, and cool off whenever you need to.
5. Try to keep physical activity to a minimum and avoid practising open-air sports at the hottest time of the day (between 12.00 and 17.00).
6. Wear light, loose-fitting, breathable clothing.
7. Never leave anyone in a closed parked car (especially babies and young children, the elderly, and the chronically ill).
8. See a doctor if you have symptoms lasting for over an hour that may be related to high temperatures.
9. Keep medicines in a cool place; heat may make medicines ineffective or even change their chemistry.
10. Prepare light meals that help replenish the salts lost due to perspiration (salads, fruit, vegetables, juices, etc.).