Heat

How to protect yourself and others during heatwaves – and how to recognise heatstroke.

Heat is one of the deadliest weather risks in Germany – especially for older people, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses. The German Weather Service (Deutscher Wetterdienst, DWD) issues heat warnings (WarnWetter app).

Keep your home cool

During the day, keep windows closed and blinds or curtains drawn – shading from the outside works best.
At night and early in the morning, air the rooms thoroughly with a cross-draught.
Switch off electrical devices that produce heat.
Damp cloths in front of the window or a lukewarm foot bath help you cool down.

Drinking and eating

Drink throughout the day, and much more than usual in the heat. If you have to limit fluids because of an illness, talk to your doctor.
Light meals, fruit and vegetables with a high water content; avoid alcohol.
Some medications work differently in the heat or don't tolerate warmth – read the package leaflet and ask your doctor.

Recognise warning signs

Condition	Signs	What to do
Heat exhaustion	Weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, heavy sweating	Move into the shade, lie down, raise the legs, drink, cool down
Heatstroke	Very high body temperature, confusion, impaired consciousness, possibly a seizure	Call 112, cool immediately (wet cloths, shade), give nothing to drink if the person doesn't respond

Be there for others

Call or visit older or sick neighbours every day, remind them to drink.
Never leave children or pets in a car – not even briefly. The inside heats up a lot within minutes.