Soaring Temperatures: How to beat the heat in Singapore?

Maureen Diament

10 Jul 2015

updated the 6 October 2015 à 22:53

1/9
Draw the blinds and turn off electrical appliances
Only allow air into the house in the evening or early morning to avoid bringing the heat into your home. Also remember to unplug all appliances that are not essential but produce heat (TV, computer, chargers that are not in use).
2/9
Don’t drink iced water
The internal body temperature is about 37°C. When we consume fluids that are too cold, our cells will have to work harder to keep the body temperature constant. This extra effort produces more heat.
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Beware of tea and coffee
They have a diuretic effect and when consumed in excess, they can be dehydrating to the body. It is therefore recommended to limit to one or two cups a day at the most, and also give up on sodas: sugar. Also caffeine has never helped anyone rehydrate.
4/9
Go easy on the alcohol
What’s better than a cold beer in the evening? Be cautious, as temperatures will remain very high even at night and alcohol causes dehydration in the body. Not to be taken during the day and limit yourself in the evening for a restful sleep.
5/9
Take showers regularly
Same principle as drinks, the focus is on warm water rather than cold. However, nothing’s better than a nice cold water jet on the legs starting from the ankle and working up to the calves to ease any aches.
6/9
Eat
When temperatures rise, we often lose our appetite. Yet food contains much of our daily fluid intake. Even if you’re not hungry, force yourself to eat. Especially fruits and vegetables, which are rich in water and minerals that will help us keep cool.
7/9
Go out, but stay indoors
Try to spend 2 to 3 hours a day or more in a cool place: supermarket, shops, the museum or cinema!
8/9
Don’t be too active
It's rare to say this but for your health this week, it is best not to engage in rigorous physical activity. If you are too addicted to running that you can’t do without it for a few days, try to run early in the morning, and always bring a bottle of water with you.
9/9
Avoid going out during the hottest hours
If you really can’t help but go out, put on a hat or cap and if necessary, moisten a few clothes using a fogger before setting foot outside. Also sprinkle some water on your neck and the elbows to cool off.

Draw the blinds and turn off electrical appliances

The weather in the island state is never impressive with the heat and humidity. So here are some ways to withstand the heat and find some fresh air.

It’s still the beginning of July, but weather forecasts have already predicted even warmer temperatures for this month in Singapore. The first half of the month is set to see highs of up to 34°C in the afternoons. Rainfall is also expected to be below average, with short thundery showers taking over only about three to five days of the month. In short, this month will be challenging not only for the more fragile (people over 65, pregnant women, young children, the sick or handicapped), but also for those who are health conscious.

Our main enemies are heat stroke, sunstroke and dehydration, all of which can have serious health consequences. We must therefore make sure to drink enough fluids: at least 1.5L a day, and maybe even up to 2L or 2.5L. Drink small amounts throughout the day, even when you’re not thirsty. Consult a doctor if you experience cramps, body temperature of above 38 °C causing fever, dizziness or nausea.

If possible, spread the advice by helping those in need to stay hydrated, to find cooler places to spend a few hours per day, and regularly keep in contact.

Maureen Diament & Nur Syazana H.

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