Hotter nights are here, here are top tips for keeping cool

The temperature warning covers counties Carlow, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Longford, Meath, Offaly, Westmeath, Wexford, Limerick, Tipperary, Waterford and Cork. 

With overnight temperatures set to exceed 15°C, humidity can make it very difficult to have a good night’s sleep.

The HSE advises that warm nights may increase the risk of dehydration, especially among vulnerable people such as the elderly, children, pregnant women or people with chronic illnesses. 

Here’s some tips for keeping cool:

• Keep windows, curtains and blinds closed during the day, and only open them when its cooler late in the evening or at night
• Sleep with lighter bedding and nightwear 
• Always keep a bottle or a glass of water besides your bed
• Use damp cloths on the skin If you’d like
• Use an electric fan if it’s necessary 

Throughout the day, remember to drink water regularly, stay out of direct sun especially between 11am and 3pm, wear lightweight clothing, and be aware of any sign of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, headache or weakness. 

HSE advises to remember the SunSmart message:

• Slip on clothing that covers your skin.
• Slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat.
• Seek shade.
• Slide on sunglasses

Anyone concerned about their health should contact their GP, pharmacist or seek medical advice. In an emergency, call 999 or 112.