Stay indoors! Is the warning that has been issued in Australia as a heat wave hits record highs across the country. But, just how do you stay cool indoors?
The past four days in Australia have been one record as being in the top ten warmest days since records began, the Australian Bureau of Meteorology said in a tweet on Wednesday.
With all of the country’s eight states and territories affected, health warnings are advising people to stay indoors. However, keeping cool indoors isn’t as easy as cranking the air con to maximum, rather experts suggest a more proactive approach to staying cool while indoors.
“With Australia sweltering in the heat this week […] a few simple changes to your home and to your habits can make a big difference. Cranking the air con on the highest setting isn’t the smartest option – and a portable air con might be more trouble than it’s worth. You can make a big difference to your home with a couple of simple changes,” says Nicky Breen a spokesperson for CHOICE.
Experts suggest the following cooling tips for surviving the summer at home:
Change your habits
Air con: Aim for 8°C difference to outside temperature and maintain your air conditioner
Temperature: Open windows when it’s cooler outside; close when it’s hotter outside.
Lights: Turn lights off and replace halogens with LEDs.
Fans: Use ceiling, pedestal and tower fans to stay cool.
Night: Turn on appliances like dishwashers and dryers at bedtime.
Change your home
Insulate: Insulated ceilings can make houses 35% cooler.
Seal: Use insulation strips around windows and doors.
Vent: Add whirly-birds or under-eave vents.
Shade: Shade the house with awnings, blinds, pergolas and deciduous trees.
Pain and glaze: Paint your house a lighter colour and have the windows glazed.
A health warning was in place across New South Wales from Tuesday, warning people to stay indoors during the hottest part of the day, minimise physical activity and keep hydrated. “Signs of heat-related illness include dizziness, tiredness, irritability, thirst, fainting, muscle pains or cramps, headache, changes in skin color, rapid pulse, shallow breathing, vomiting and confusion,” a statement said.
For more on the dangers of dehydration and how to trick yourself into drinking more water, click here.
