Heat warning for Krefeld: How to protect yourself at the weekend!

Heat warning for Krefeld: How to protect yourself at the weekend!

The temperatures are rising and Krefeld is preparing for a hot weekend. On Saturday, June 14th, the German Weather Service (DWD) expects severe heat pollution, which could particularly put a strain on older people and those in need of care. A temperature of 32 degrees was recorded in Krefeld on Friday, giving a first foretaste of the hot days ahead. “The perceived temperature could rise even higher,” warns the city of Krefeld in a recent statement. The heat warning is issued when the perceived temperature is above 32 degrees, and as RP Online reports, preparations are urgently needed.

Given the extreme weather conditions, it is essential to stay well hydrated. The city administration recommends drinking enough water on such hot days. Anyone who stays in a place like the “Rhine Side” in Uerdingen can take advantage of the cooling breeze - however, those who enjoy swimming should refrain from jumping into the Rhine, as this is a federal waterway and not safe bathing water. The current can be dangerous for inexperienced swimmers, especially due to the proximity to moving ships.

Heat: An increasing risk to health

Heat is considered the biggest climate change-related health risk in Germany, and all age groups are affected. Information and awareness about the risks are crucial for heat protection in Krefeld, as the City of Krefeld explains. It is important to ensure that citizens receive and understand the DWD's heat warnings. The warnings are based on various criteria such as day and night temperatures and can be accessed via apps and newsletters.

Symptoms of excessive heat exposure range from confusion to circulatory shock, making awareness of one's health particularly important this time of year. First aid measures, such as finding shade and keeping the body cool, are essential to avoid health complications.

Well prepared for the summer

The city gives practical recommendations: activities should be postponed to the morning or evening hours, heavy meals should be avoided and light food such as salads and fruit are ideal instead. Glasses of water, unsweetened teas and fresh mineral water keep your body and mind fit. Fans or air conditioning can be helpful for cooling the apartment, while airing the rooms during the cooler hours of the night can provide further relief.

The initiativeRefill Krefeldoffers the opportunity to refill free tap water at participating stores, further incentivizing people to stay hydrated. Furthermore, drinking water fountains at various locations in Krefeld support the supply of fresh water.

A hotline run by the city of Krefeld is active during the summer months and citizens can ask questions about heat conditions, behavior and health problems. This initiative is a valuable component in the fight against the dangers of heat. Because, as the Robert Koch Institute underlines, with increasing climate change, an increase in hot days is also expected in the coming years - one more reason to be well prepared.