Heat Wave in Zoetermeer: Stay Cool and Look Out for Each Other

A Code Orange has been issued for Zoetermeer due to the ongoing heat. Temperatures are expected to rise significantly in the coming days. Heat can lead to health problems, especially among the elderly, young children, and people with underlying health conditions. That is why it is important to take good care of yourself and each other. 

Drink enough water

In hot weather, your body loses more fluid than usual. So don’t wait until you’re thirsty—drink water regularly throughout the day.
In Zoetermeer, there are fifteen public drinking water stations where you can fill your bottle for free . Zoetermeer | Drinking Water Stations. This way, you can stay hydrated even when you’re on the go.
Publicly accessible locations are also asked to make water available whenever possible. 

Keep Your Home Cool

Try to keep your home as cool as possible during the day by keeping windows, doors, and curtains closed. Don’t open the windows until it cools down outside. Also, avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest hours of the day and stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible between noon and 6:00 p.m. And be sure to apply a high-SPF sunscreen if you do have to work or spend time in the sun.

Are you able to keep your home comfortably cool? If so, see if you can help a neighbor, friend, or family member who’s having a harder time doing so. A cup of coffee, a glass of water, or a place to cool off for a bit can make a big difference on hot days.

Beat the Heat

Need to cool off? The city parks and recreational areas in Zoetermeer offer plenty of shaded spots. It’s often more pleasant to be surrounded by greenery than among concrete and asphalt. For example, you can visit the Binnenpark, Floriadepark, Westerpark, Burgemeester Hoekstrapark, Bentwoud, De Balij, and Buytenpark.

There are also places indoors where you can escape the heat. Think of the library, the swimming pool, the movie theater, a supermarket, or the Forum Stadhuis.

If you're having trouble finding a cool place on your own, don't hesitate to ask people around you for tips and help. 

Look out for one another

Not everyone is able to protect themselves effectively from the heat. Older adults, people with health issues, and those living alone are often at greater risk. A phone call, a text message, or a quick visit can make all the difference.

Ask how they're doing, whether they're drinking enough, and if they need any help. Especially on hot days, small gestures can make a big difference.

Don't forget about children and pets

Children and animals are especially vulnerable on hot days. Therefore, never leave them in a parked car, not even for a few minutes. Also, always make sure they have plenty of drinking water, shade, and a way to cool off.

Together, let’s keep Zoetermeer cool. Drink plenty of water, find ways to stay cool, and look out for one another a little extra these days.