What can you do in hot weather?

• Drink enough: preferably 2 litres of water or more per day. Even if you are not thirsty.
• Keep yourself cool: wear thin clothing, stay in the shade, take a cool foot bath or occasionally place a wet towel on your neck.
• Protect yourself from the sun: apply sunscreen regularly, wear sunglasses, light-coloured clothing and a cap or hat.
• Do not exercise actively in the afternoon. It is much cooler in the morning and later in the evening.

Complaints you may receive

If it is very hot and you do not adapt well to this, you may experience the following symptoms:

• Sweating profusely
• To be tired
• Not being able to concentrate properly
• Feeling dizzy
• Headache
• Skin problems such as burning, itching and blistering rashes.

Do you have any of the above symptoms? If so, make sure you take action. Cool your body down and drink plenty of fluids. Are the symptoms not improving? Then you may be dehydrated or suffering from sunstroke. This can be dangerous.

Difference between heatstroke and sunstroke

Heatstroke is a severe form of overheating, while sunstroke is a less severe form of overheating, often caused by prolonged exposure to the sun. Heatstroke can lead to unconsciousness and requires immediate medical attention, while sunstroke can generally be treated with rest, cooling and hydration.

Symptoms of heatstroke
In the event of heatstroke, the body is unable to dissipate heat and the thermostat in the brain can become disrupted. Body temperature often rises above 40 degrees, causing confusion, unconsciousness, rapid heartbeat and breathing, convulsions and, in some cases, a lack of sweat production. Immediate assistance is crucial. The body must be cooled and fluids administered.

Heatwave plan and heatwave

In the Netherlands, a heatwave is defined as five or more days with a maximum temperature of at least 25 degrees, of which at least three days must be 30 degrees or higher in De Bilt.

The National Heat Plan is activated during prolonged periods of hot weather, whereas a heatwave is a specific period of hot weather. The Heat Plan is intended to protect vulnerable groups during periods of prolonged hot weather, with organisations such as municipal health services and pharmacists providing information and advice.