How to avoid heatstroke when Spain starts to sizzle

Heatstroke is no laughing matter, so make sure that you are responsible and look out for others as the first heatwave of Spain's summer kicks in.

Spain's National Police have issued a set of guidelines to help identify the early symptoms of heatstroke; headache, dizziness, nausea, cramps, seizures. And advise that if you find someone with suspected heatstroke then you should move them to the shade, remove their clothes and give them water. If they are unconscious then put them on their side in the recovery position and seek medical help. 

 

 

Here’s The Local top tips for staying safe during hot weather.

Protect against sunburn

Cover up or apply cream Photo: AFP

Not only is a brighter shade of lobster deeply unattractive and likely to increase your chance of skin cancer but sunburn can greatly contribute to heatstroke. Stay in the shade, protect yourself with a wide-brimmed hat and apply high factor sun cream.

Never sit in a parked car

It’s amazing how quickly a parked car can turn into an oven in the Spanish sun, even in just a few minutes.  Never leave anyone, and that includes dogs, in a parked car, even if the windows are open a crack and the car is in the shade.

Relax

A worker takes a snooze in Seville. Photo: Karolina Lubryczynska 

There is a reason why Spain traditionally comes to a standstill on summer afternoons. Avoid strenuous activity and find a cool spot to rest during the hottest hours of the day. If you can, we recommend a siesta.

Wear loosefitting and lightweight clothing

To allow air to circulate around your skin and let your body cool properly avoid tight clothes and synthetic fibres.

Keep cool

Photo: AFP

Whether it’s taking a dip in the nearest swimming pool, sheltering in an air-conditioned shopping mall or lying low in a darkened apartment, there are always sanctuaries at hand to escape the heat.

READ MORE: How to survive summer in the city in Spain

Get used to it

Don’t overdo it in the heat until you become acclimatized. Locals may deal with the summer temperatures better than visitors so allow yourself some weeks to adjust and accept that some people from colder climes never do.

Drink plenty of fluids

Photo: AFP

Unfortunately that doesn't mean sangria or cerveza. Staying hydrated will help your body sweat to maintain a normal body temperature, so always have a bottle of water at hand.

Be careful

Age, medical conditions and fitness levels can all have an impact on how you deal with the heat. And remember that certain medications or medical conditions can increase the risk of heat-related problems.

If you feel really ill, seek medical advice.