We're having a heatwave!

As temperatures hit 40C for the first time in the UK and with a red warning in place, people are wondering how to stay productive in a heatwave! It might just be a couple of days this time but it's likely to become a more regular occurrence.

As well as all the usual, more obvious guidelines on keeping cool in general, here are a few ideas to help you keep reasonably productive when things heat up.

Change when you work

• Get up earlier in the morning and work later in the afternoon or evening.
• Reschedule any important tasks or activity for a few days time when it's cooler.
• Avoid commuting in the heat of the day or work from home. Many people have arranged to do this already.
• Have virtual meetings over Zoom or Teams to avoid travelling in the heat or getting caught up in heat-related transport issues.

Change where you work

Unlike many countries, houses in the UK aren't built to deal with heat, so many don't have air conditioning. Go go a local cafe, cafe or restaurant for part of the day, when it's hottest. You'll appreciate the cool and they'll appreciate a little extra business.

Take frequent breaks. If you're sitting in one place that's too warm, like an office without air-conditioning, you'll lose focus and become tired and dehydrated, more quickly. Get up and move somewhere cooler for a few minutes before getting back to work. Use a wet flannel or towel on your face and neck to cool yourself down.

Keep it light

Wear light or minimal clothing. Light in colour as well as material. You can be as minimal as you like when working at home! Loose, natural fabrics are cooler than close fitting, man made.

Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

• Fill up bottles of water and pop them in the fridge so you have a cool drink on hand.
• Keep a glass of water or a chilled bottle on your desk, take frequent drinks and keep topping it up.
• Avoid hot drinks like coffee and alcohol which make you more dehydrated. Although there's nothing like a cup of tea on a hot day!