With a few small and easy changes, everyone can influence how comfortable their home feels on hot days. It is worth taking action early, as heat prevention measures are more effective the sooner you start them. As heat waves become more intense and frequent, the need for cooling at home increases.
“If your home becomes stiflingly hot and your own efforts to cool it down are ineffective, you should contact your property manager. The indoor temperature is raised by solar radiation and the outdoor temperature, but also by heat sources within the home, such as people and household appliances,” says Raisa Iivari from the City of Helsinki’s Housing Health Team.
According to the Decree on Housing Health, the temperature in homes should not exceed 32 degrees Celsius. In retirement homes and service homes, the limit is 30 degrees.
“Temperatures above 30 degrees certainly make living conditions rather uncomfortable. Especially if your quality of life, such as sleep, is suffering, it is worth doing something about it. However, you should remember that the aim in summer is not to cool the temperature down to 20 degrees. Even a few degrees less can feel refreshing,” adds Iivari.
Heat is harmful to many vulnerable groups, such as older people, those with chronic illnesses and children.
Tips for a cooler home
- Start early – begin cooling your home before it gets hot inside.
- Ventilate at night and in the morning when it is still cooler outside.
- Keep your windows, blinds and doors closed during the day.
- Install protection against the sun on your windows and balcony glazing, such as sun protection film or blinds.
- Ventilate correctly. Use cross ventilation where possible.
- A fan is recommended if the temperature is below 35 degrees Celsius.
- If necessary, use cooling air conditioning units.
- Avoid heating up your home – you can cook oven-baked meals in the autumn.
Cool down your body and feel better
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, mineral water or diluted juice.
- Cool down by swimming, taking cold showers or using ice packs.
- Stay in the shade. Find a place to cool off.
- Wear cotton clothing and use cotton bedding.
Also take care of your loved ones during hot weather
- Ensure that your loved ones are protected from the heat. Older people, people with long-term illnesses, children and animals are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of heat.
- Remember not to leave anyone in a parked car.
