Heatwave myths busted as July reaches scorching temperatures – The Mirror

Brits will face sweltering weather in July, according to Met Office forecasts. Here are four myths about heatwaves you need to be aware of to handle the heat safely

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Heatwaves are becoming a norm this summer across Britain. After a scorching June, the Met Office is predicting that early to mid July will be equally hot with temperature highs of 34 degrees.

While many of us enjoy the sunshine, experts have issued warnings against common mistakes people make when it comes to handling the heat.

Luxury bathroom specialist Big Bathroom Shop and Dr Luke Pratsides, lead GP at Numan health clinic have teamed up to debunk four myths about coping with heatwaves and sun exposure.

John Lawless of Big Bathroom Shop said: "Brits often make the same mistakes when it comes to protecting against heat and sun, so we have been speaking with Dr Luke to provide some guidance on how to handle the heatwave, treat sunburn and safely enjoy the sunshine this weekend."

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Taking cold showers is a simple yet effective method to keep cool and soothe your skin after sun exposure, which Dr Luke Pratsides confirms has been recommended by the NHS.

John Lawless also advises: "You may find that a lower pressure showerhead is more soothing on skin that has been exposed to the sun. A cool bath may provide more relief and you can use a sponge to target areas that are causing discomfort."

Many think that icing a sunburn is good for you, but putting ice directly on sun-exposed skin is actually warned against.

Dr Luke Pratsides explains: "You should never put ice directly on your skin as this can cause damage. You might suffer from an ice burn or frostbite."

Instead, Mr John recommends using ice wrapped in a soft hand towel and placing this on the skin, adding: "Only leave on the skin for a minute or two at a time."

Keeping your windows open to stay cool only works if it's cooler outside than inside. If you're facing the sun, it's actually better for you to keep your blinds closed to block out direct sunlight.

Mr John Lawless adds: "Upstairs rooms tend to get hotter in the summer months, keeping bedroom and bathroom windows open with blinds shut is key to keeping air circulating through the house during a heatwave."

Similar to ice, don't apply petroleum jelly to sunburns, as its oil-based. Dr Luke Pratsides advises that we should use strong moisturising lotion, after-sun lotion or aloe vera instead.

John recommends: "Store after care creams in a cool dark place in your bathroom like a vanity or a storage cabinet."

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Heatwave myths busted as July reaches scorching temperatures - The Mirror