6 ways to protect yourself from a heatwave

AS the heatwave continues in KwaZulu-Natal this summer, eThekwini Municipality advises local residents on how to protect themselves from the excessive heat.

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This comes after the South African Weather Services warned of hot weather conditions during this season. They also revealed that temperatures are expected to drop slightly from Friday, January 20.

The City encourages local citizens to avoid direct sunlight as it causes illness.

The ways to protect yourself from the heatwave are as follows:

• Avoid direct sunlight and shield yourself from the sun with hats, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities, playing excessive sports and hard labour, especially around midday.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Dress in loose-fitting clothes.
• Do not leave pets and children alone in closed vehicles.
• The elderly, as well as young children and people with pre-existing conditions, must take extra care to stay hydrated and cool.