Copenhagen, 19 July 2023 (dpa/MIA) - The European office of the World Health Organization (WHO) is urging people not to be caught unprepared by the high temperatures, in light of the heatwave affecting much of the continent.

Without proper preparation, heat can be deadly, explained Hans Kluge, director of the WHO European Region. On the one hand, one must protect oneself and one's fellow human beings immediately now, but on the other hand, one must also take the right precautions for the future.

"Beyond adapting to our new reality this summer, we must look to the years and decades ahead," the regional director stressed in a statement on Tuesday.

There is an urgent need for regional as well as global action to effectively combat the climate crisis, which poses an existential threat to humanity, he said.

Kluge added that it was also crucial to involve the younger generations, who were particularly concerned with climate issues and were often bubbling over with ideas and solutions.

In addition, Kluge said the fight against climate change must be a non-partisan issue "championed by all sides of the political spectrum."

Kluge advised a number of measures to stay as cool as possible and thus avoid the worst health consequences of the heat. People should stay out of the heat by avoiding going outside and doing strenuous activities during the hottest stretch of the day.

People should keep their homes cool by, for example, keeping blinds down during the day and using the night air to cool them down. It is also important to keep the body cool and hydrated by wearing light, loose clothing, taking cold showers and drinking water regularly.

"As we adapt to this new normal, with its devastating effects on health and well-being, it's vital we are all armed with knowledge that could help save lives," said Kluge.