Chief physician explains

How to get through the mega heat well

In case of overheating: cover your head and neck with damp cloths and drink water

(Bild: Österreichisches Rote Kreuz (ÖRK) / Markus Hechenberger)

The current temperatures can cause real problems for the body. It can even be fatal. The chief physician of the Austrian Red Cross explains what you can do in such cases. And how to protect yourself from swimming accidents.

Vienna is currently experiencing a heatwave. If you can't shelter in cool rooms, there are a few things you should take to heart at the moment.

 "Make sure you are never exposed to the blazing sun for too long. Take breaks, drink plenty of water and use headgear and sun protection," explains Wolfgang Schreiber, chief physician at the Red Cross. Sufficient, that means two to three liters of liquid a day.

Wolfgang Schreiber is Chief Physician of the Austrian Red Cross.

(Bild: ÖRK/Markus Hechenberger)

A heat emergency, which can be recognized by headaches, nausea, chills and cramps, can be life-threatening. Helpers need to act quickly: the affected person should be moved into the shade and their head and neck should be cooled with damp cloths. They should also drink (water, tea, unsweetened fruit juices). If there is no improvement, call the emergency services.

You can recognize a heat emergency by symptoms such as headache, nausea, chills or a very red head.

Wolfgang Schreiber, Chefarzt des Roten Kreuzes

Swimming accidents
And this is what the doctor advises to avoid swimming accidents: taking a quick shower before swimming helps to prevent circulatory problems, never go into the water under the influence of alcohol, never let non-swimmers out of your sight. Pay particular attention to children and the elderly. "Don't hesitate to inform the pool supervisor if you notice any dangerous situations. In the event of an emergency, alert the emergency services and start resuscitation immediately," says Schreiber.