HEAT SAFETY TIPS

Every year, the Spanish Ministry of Health reminds the public of the importance of protecting their health during the summer months in order to prevent the adverse effects that high temperatures can have.

Since 2004, a Health Services Action Protocol for Heatwaves has been in place. It was developed in collaboration with government departments and Spanish scientific societies and is implemented during the hottest months of the summer.

RECOMMENDATIONS AND HEAT SAFETY TIPS

These are the general protection and prevention recommendations against high temperatures included in the Ministry of Health's annual guide, "Enjoy a Healthy Summer":

Drink water and other fluids frequently, even if you do not feel thirsty, regardless of your level of physical activity.
Avoid drinks containing caffeine, alcohol, or large amounts of sugar, as they can contribute to dehydration.
Pay special attention to vulnerable groups, including babies and young children, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, older adults, and people with medical conditions that may worsen in hot weather.
These conditions include heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cancer, mobility impairments, dementia, and other mental health disorders.
Stay in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned places for as long as possible, and cool yourself whenever necessary.
Reduce physical activity and avoid outdoor sports during the hottest part of the day, approximately between 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing.
Never leave anyone inside a parked, closed vehicle, especially children, older adults, or people with medical conditions.
Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms lasting more than one hour that may be related to heat exposure or high temperatures.
Store medications in a cool place, as excessive heat may affect their composition and effectiveness.
Eat light meals, such as salads, fruit, vegetables, and fresh juices.

RISK FACTORS

The main risk factors associated with exposure to heatwaves include:

Personal Factors

Adults over 65 years of age.
Infants and children under 4 years old.
Pregnant women.
People with cardiovascular, respiratory, or chronic illnesses.
Individuals taking certain medications, including diuretics, neuroleptics, anticholinergics, and tranquilizers.
People with memory disorders, cognitive impairment, disorientation, or limited independence in daily life.
Difficulty adapting to high temperatures.
Alcohol or drug use.

Environmental, Occupational, and Social Factors

People living alone, experiencing homelessness, or living in socially or economically disadvantaged conditions.
Lack of air conditioning or adequate cooling.
Poor working conditions involving excessive heat exposure.
Air pollution.
Highly urbanized environments.
Prolonged exposure to high temperatures over several consecutive days, especially when nighttime temperatures remain high.

Local Factors

Although environmental and personal factors are highly significant, local factors also play a fundamental role because they influence both temperature levels and the overall impact of heatwaves.

The main local factors include: