Belgium and Dutch Achterhoek launch heat‑wave guidance for cooler homes

Rising summer temperatures in Belgium are prompting residents to adopt a range of passive cooling strategies. Advice emphasizes keeping windows and doors shut during the hottest part of the day, using external shading such as roller shutters, screens or awnings, ventilating in the cooler evenings or early mornings, reducing internal heat sources, and improving insulation and green surroundings. Structural measures like insulating roofs and walls, installing shading glass, and, if needed, opting for efficient heat‑pump air‑conditioning are also recommended.

In the Dutch Achterhoek region, municipalities and health partners have rolled out a public‑health campaign called “Handel bij hitte”. The initiative urges people to stay hydrated, keep homes cool, seek shade, and check on vulnerable neighbours. Visible actions include an ice‑cream‑truck‑styled outreach vehicle at town halls, a campaign video featuring local figures, and a website with practical tips. The effort is coordinated by local authorities, the regional GGD, the province of Gelderland, the Rijn en IJssel water board and water supplier Vitens.