Morocco, like a good number of countries such as Spain or France, is experiencing one of the most difficult heat waves. This intense heatwave episode invites to adopt the right gestures but also to avoid common errors which prove to be very harmful for the body and the spirit. Here are 5 things not to do during a heat wave.
Do not stay too close (or sleep) in front of a fan: Although the temptation is too strong, staying too close or sleeping in front of a fan could cause you health problems such as muscle cramps or a dry throat, but not only.
The ventilator can also be the source of respiratory problems. By continually stirring the air, it helps dust or pollen to infiltrate the sinuses.
Avoid cold drinks high in sugar: Cold drinks high in sugar won’t hydrate you the way water does. The sugar in fruit juices, for example, creates a need for extra water, which is self-defeating during a heat wave.
Opt for hot beverages like tea, which will help raise your core temperature, which will affect blood moving to the skin faster, causing you to sweat faster and ultimately feel cooler faster.
This is why hot drinks (and spicy foods) are so popular in warmer climates, as they react faster on the body and help the consumer cool down faster and stay cooler longer.
Do not take a cold shower: This is probably the most common error. If you think a cold shower will help you cool down, the reality is quite different.
Taking a cold shower can make you feel cooler for a short time due to how our skin reacts to the immediate change in temperature.
However, cold water on your skin immediately reduces blood flow. This reaction essentially tricks the outer layer of skin into believing that the core temperature is colder. In reality, the body simply retains more heat inside in an effort to balance core temperature, which inadvertently raises overall body temperature.
Thus, cooling off in summer will be more effective with a hot shower (water temperature around 33â°C) rather than a cold shower (water temperature 20-25â°C). It will feel hot at first but after a few minutes will provide better comfort over the long term.
Do not engage in strenuous activity: Jogging in the heat is risky enough, but given the increased level of air pollution that comes with the onset of a heat wave, you’re doing your lungs a disservice.
The warning extends to any physical activity as high temperatures and high activity levels can lead to dehydration and life-threatening heat stroke.
It is therefore necessary to avoid practicing a sporting activity between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. During these hours, the body loses more water and gets tired faster. Not to mention the risk of sunburn. It is necessary to favor morning or evening outings to feel the benefits of your efforts.
In addition, the skin should be protected with sunscreen. While drinking before you feel thirsty, if you feel thirsty, it means you are already dehydrated. The body is made up of 55-70% water. In order for the body to remain resistant during physical exertion, it is imperative to maintain this level.
Do not leave your curtains open: Curtains that are open during the day let in heat as well as sunlight. Also, do not run appliances such as ovens, dishwashers, and washers and dryers during a heat wave, as they will add heat to an environment that is already too hot.