We may have started the year trying to find ways to keep warm, but Britain is now enjoying its first barbecue summer for several years and temperatures have been soaring.
Saturday July 13th was the hottest day of the year so far, while yesterday also saw temperatures rise to the high 20s in most regions. Forecasters say the hot weather is also likely to continue until at least next weekend.
Jonathan Powell, forecaster for Vantage Weather Services, told the Daily Express he is even more optimistic than this, commenting: “The rest of July is showing a similar picture and now August looks like following suit, so we could be looking at another six weeks or more of this. In terms of historic heatwaves, this is now looking like giving 1976 a run for its money.”
The Met Office has issued a level three heatwave alert for parts of Britain, warning people to keep a check on the elderly and very young who may be at risk because of the soaring temperatures.
People who are wilting a little could try taking a few steps to ensure their home stays cool. Try investing in some window blindsthat are either white to reflect the heat or have a thermal layer to prevent it coming inside.
Close them during the hottest part of the day to provide extra shade, but keep the windows open behind them if a breeze is blowing in.
Turn off as many electrical appliances as possible and use window fans before you go to bed if your bedroom is feeling very hot.
Take cooler showers in the evenings when the sun has gone down and try running cold water on your wrists if you are overheating, as this will cool the blood supply flowing around your body.
Finally, although it may be very unpleasant to go into the attic in this heat, you may want to consider adding insulation if you haven’t already got some. This is one of the best ways of keeping heat out of your home and will also serve you well during cold weather.
Check out all the window blinds to keep your property cool by visting your local Louvolite supplier.