General Travel Information

Travel tips for coping with the heat

Drinking plenty of fluids is recommended during hot weather

If you are planning to do some traveling, you’d better be prepared for hot weather. And not just where you might expect it, in the tropics and the desert. Much of Canada and the U.S. and even the U.K. and other parts of Northern Europe have seen protracted spells of hot weather this summer.

While its nice to have blue skies, high temperatures and the sun’s powerful rays can be hazardous to the health. Following are some tips for dealing with the sun and heat.

• Wearing loose, tightly woven clothing made of a lightweight material, such as cotton, helps one to stay cool while blocking the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Wearing a broad-brimmed hat is also a good way to block those rays.

• Everyone needs to wear sunscreen. The higher the SPF number, the greater the protection the sunscreen provides from UV rays. Use a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15.

• Avoid cracked or chapped lips by wearing a lip balm with SPF. This will keep lips soft, protected and blister free.

• Wear sunglasses. Look for sunglasses that block all UVA and UVB rays. This will protect the eyes and prevent fine lines from developing.

• Enjoy the sun, but don't forget to enjoy the shade. Sit in the shade of a tree or umbrella. Avoid the sun when it is at its most intense, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

• Drink plenty of fluids to avoid becoming dehydrated. Enjoy alcohol in moderation as it can promote dehydration.

• Take it easy. Don’t overexert yourself when the weather is very hot.

If you are heading for the tropics or some other exotic locale, here are some other pointers:

• Before you go, check to see what vaccinations are required or recommended for your destination.

• In tropical or wilderness locations, check shoes for vermin such as scorpions before putting them on.

• Seek reliable information about the quality of local tap water. If it is not safe, drink bottled water and use it to brush your teeth. When purchasing, always check the seal on the bottle to ensure that it has not been refilled with tap water.

• Avoid ice in cool drinks. Freezing will not kill bacteria in unsafe water.

• Eat only well-cooked food and freshly peeled fruits and vegetables.

• Be prepared in case of medical emergencies.

Source: Tilley Endurables, Inc.