More than 150 million people across Europe continue to endure record-breaking temperatures, with more than 1,300 heat-related deaths recorded since June 21 amid fears that the death toll could rise further.

“Europe is the fastest-warming continent on Earth, heating at twice the global average,” World Health Organisation Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Sunday. “Heat stress is often called the ‘silent killer,’ and many European homes, workplaces, and schools were not built for these temperatures.”

The intensifying heatwave, driven by climate change, has seen record-high temperatures in France, the United Kingdom, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, and Belgium, with the extreme weather gradually moving towards eastern Europe.

According to the WHO, more than 200,000 people have died across Europe in four years as a result of heatwaves.

More than 1,000 heat-related deaths have been recorded in France since the heatwave officially began on June 20, with people aged 65 and above accounting for 85 per cent of the fatalities. France’s temperatures hit 43.8°C in Pulluau on June 24, marking the hottest day on the national record.

Recently, at least 327 people have died in Spain as a result of the extreme heat, while more than 20 deaths have been reported in the UK. In Germany, where temperatures peaked at 41.5°C, at least seven people drowned in swimming incidents, according to authorities.

As the WHO works with countries to address the growing threat posed by heatwaves, health officials have suggested ways individuals can protect themselves. Below are five important ways to stay cool and hydrated.

1. Drink enough water

Drinking plenty of water remains one of the best ways to stay safe during a heatwave, even if you do not feel thirsty. Global health bodies and experts recommend drinking about two to three litres per day to keep the body cool. To prevent extreme thirst or heatstroke, limit or avoid alcohol, sugary and energy drinks, and caffeinated beverages.

2. Take cool showers or baths

Taking cool showers or baths can help lower body temperature during periods of extreme heat. However, experts say freezing cold water should be avoided. Instead, bathing with lukewarm water for five to 10 minutes and leaving the skin damp is effective.

3. Wet your skin

Another quick way to lower body temperature is to wet the skin with a damp cloth or a spray bottle, targeting the wrists, neck, armpits, and groin. Avoid using freezing water, wear loose-fitting clothing, and rewet the body at intervals to help keep it cool.

4. Keep your home cool

The WHO advises keeping the windows closed and blocking them from sunlight during the day and opening them after dark when temperatures are lower. Also, to keep the home cool, turn off electrical appliances to reduce indoor heat. People are also encouraged to spend at least two to three hours a day in cool places and to wear sunglasses, hats, or caps when going out during the day.

5. Avoid severe physical activities

Strenuous activities should be avoided during the hottest time of the day, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. It is recommended to stay in well-ventilated and shaded areas when physical labour is unavoidable.