You don’t need anyone to tell you what your body already knows–we’re headed for a major heatwave. You can feel it in the constant sweat droplets dripping down your back, the inexplicable headaches, the unquenchable thirst and your reluctance to wear anything other than shorts and a tank top. The India Meteorological Department, meanwhile, has issued a yellow warning for Maharashtra from March 11 to March 13, for now, cautioning residents about rising temperatures. While you can’t do much about global warming, what you can do is take adequate care of yourself, those around you, your pet and the stray animals in your area. Ahead, Vogue’s guide on how to stay cool during a heatwave:
Staying in
If your room gets too sunny during the day, keep your curtains drawn early morning onwards. This will prevent your room from getting overheated. Hang wet towels from door and window frames to lower the temperature indoors.
High humidity causes dehydration, which may lead to other kinds of heat-related illnesses exhaustion and heat stroke. Staying hydrated is your best defence when it comes to surviving the heatwave. Start your morning by filling up two big bottles of water and keep them where you can see them. Track your water intake and make it a point to finish both bottles by the afternoon. Refill and repeat.
Alcohol and caffeine can cause severe dehydration during the summer. If you’ve been thinking about controlling your caffeine intake, this might be the right time to actually get down to it. Avoid drinking alcohol and opt for a refreshing lemonade. Even better, make yourself a glass of ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution) instead. Foods high in carbs and protein can also cause heat and indigestion in your body. Instead, opt for lighter food options and incorporate lots of fruits, yoghurts, and milk in your diet. Instead of having one large meal to kickstart your day, eat smaller portions throughout the day.
Choose light, breathable cotton fabrics in light colours. Avoid darker shades like black, brown and navy blues—even if they dominate your wardrobe and your state of mind—because they tend to absorb heat.
If your building’s water tank is constructed without an overhead shade, steaming hot water will flow out of it when you open the tap at midday. To avoid this, it is best to fill up two or three buckets of water early in the morning to use later in the day.
If there is a water shortage in your area and it becomes difficult to shower twice or thrice a day, try to cool off your body with a damp towel at regular intervals.
Minimising physical activity during the day. Instead of going on walks or working out in the morning, try to do them in the evening after sundown.
Choose cotton bed linens and heat-absorbing curtains for your doors and windows. Keeping your mind cool and calm during a heatwave is also important. Avoid arguments, stress and loud noises inside the house and relax your mind with soothing music.
Check on your family members, friends and elderly neighbours to see if they require assistance. Look after your domestic help and the labourers working around you and make sure they are adequately hydrated. If they’re working outdoors, ensure it is under the shade of a tree or a makeshift shelter. Request them to cease all work and rest during the afternoon when the heat is at its worst.
Going out
When stepping out in the daytime, make sure you have all your summer essentials at hand. Pack a water bottle, an umbrella, sunglasses, napkins, an ORS pouch, sunscreen and enough loose change. Slather sunscreen all over your face and body 15 minutes before stepping out and reapply after wiping your face with a napkin every two hours. Loose change will come in handy if you’re feeling faint and need to hail a cab driver who only accepts cash.
You don’t want to be sitting at a bus stop or the train station for an hour in this heat because you forgot to check the train schedule or the bus timings. Plan your day early, check bus and train availability online and figure out how you can wrap up your errands as quickly as possible. This will save you spending more time outdoors and unnecessary detours.
If running errands outdoors is unavoidable, try making regular pit stops in air-conditioned department stores and showrooms to cool down your body.
How to care for stray animals
During a heatwave, animals require fresh water more than food. If you feed stray animals in your area, put out water bowls along with feeders. Place the bowls under shade so that the water does not heat up during the day. Don’t forget to put out a tub of water for the birds who fly around in circles in search of a water source to take a quick dip in. If you have space on your terrace, place a small tub of water for birds to cool off and drink from.
Consider fostering a stray animal at home until the heatwave ends. If fostering is not an option, let stray animals enter your building passageways and take shelter in your garden, yard or garage sheds.
Stray dogs and cats often take shelter under parked cars as a respite from the heat. Always check under vehicles before starting the engine to avoid fatal injuries.
If you see an animal in distress or looking sickly, contact the vet or an animal welfare organisation. When faced with extreme heat, animals often fall sick or act aggressively toward strangers. So, be cautious while interacting with them, even if you are only trying to help.
How to care for your pet
Do not let your pet run around during the daytime. Instead, try to make them sit with you and cool off under the fan or AC. If you have to leave them alone at home, leave the fan or AC on and ensure they have easy access to their water bowl.
Limit your pet’s outdoor activities during the day and make sure they are not exposed to the sun for a prolonged period. If they like to go on daily walks, take them out in the evening instead of during the day. If they keep running outdoors during the day, lure them back inside with toys and treats.
If you have to take your pet out with you, do not leave them inside the car. During the summer, cars can heat up excessively, leading to fatal injuries in your pet—even death. Instead, bring them with you on a leash while you get your work done.
Refill your pet’s water bowl and serve them a water-based meal to keep their hydration level up. Curd, rice and milk are great savoury options for your pets during this time.
If bathing is recommended for your pet, give them cooling baths frequently. If frequent bathing is not an option for your pet, wipe their face and forehead with a wet towel.
If your pet is quite furry, this is a good time for a trim and some grooming. While trimming your pet's coat might feel relaxing, remember that it is not recommended for all animals and breeds. Make sure to consult your groomer or vet before you trim your pet’s coat.
Also read:
Summer-proofing your tresses: Our guide to prepping your hair for the scorching heat
10 easy-breezy pieces to help you survive the humid weather
Breezy chic: 5 effortlessly cool summer outfits that spell ultimate comfort and style
