Beat the Heat: Tips to Stay Safe During the Heatwave

The Athens Medical Association (AMA) has issued a set of preventive and protective guidelines to help citizens stay safe during the ongoing heatwave in Greece. The AMA emphasizes that high temperatures, especially in urban centers with significant air pollution, can create intolerable conditions for the human body.

At-risk groups

Particular attention is needed for those with cardiovascular or other chronic illnesses, including diabetes, kidney failure, and lung diseases. These groups are at greater risk during extreme heat.

Prevention and protection measures

Syntagma Square, Athens. Photo © Greek Travel Pages

To mitigate the effects of the heatwave, the AMA recommends the following:

• Minimize movement and stay indoors: Limit outdoor activities and stay in air-conditioned environments. Avoid exercise and physical exertion during the day and at night if temperatures exceed 32 degrees Celsius.
• Avoid sun exposure: Stay in shaded or cool places. When outdoors, use a hat and dark-colored sunglasses. Wear thin, light-colored, mainly cotton clothing.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of cool water or natural juices. Avoid sugary and carbonated drinks.
• Eat light meals: Opt for light, non-greasy, and salty foods in small, frequent meals.
• Avoid alcohol: Refrain from consuming alcoholic beverages. Take frequent cool baths or apply cold compresses.
• Medication and health monitoring: Those on medications, particularly diuretics, tranquilizers, antihypertensives, antihistamines, and beta-blockers, should maintain regular contact with their doctors for tailored advice. Individuals with chronic conditions should also stay in touch with healthcare providers.
• Limit movement in high pollution areas: Residents of central Athens should limit their movements in areas with high air pollution and heavy traffic. It is advisable to stay indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
• Vulnerable groups: Infants, young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those who are obese should follow these measures and seek medical advice if they experience symptoms like dizziness, headache, vertigo, drowsiness, behavioral changes, nausea, vomiting, or cramps.
• Use air-conditioned spaces: Spend time in air-conditioned areas that operate 24 hours a day.

Weather forecast

The heatwave is predicted to last until Friday, June 14. Citizens are encouraged to stay informed about weather updates and follow the AMA’s guidelines to ensure their safety.

Athens’ heat assistance line

In response to the country’s heatwave, the Municipality of Athens has established a dedicated service to assist citizens, particularly those in vulnerable groups. Citizens can reach out to the existing 24-hour Citizen Service Line at 1595 (fees may vary depending on the provider) or contact the “Heat Line” of the municipal clinics at 210 3638049. Assistance and guidance for dealing with heat-related health concerns are available daily from 8:30 am to 7:30 pm.