Hungary advises cooling strategies as summer heat intensifies

As a heat wave sweeps Hungary, experts provide practical ways to keep both people and pets safe. Dog owners are urged to ensure constant access to fresh water, limit walks to early mornings or late evenings, avoid hot pavement, and use air‑conditioning or cooling mats for vulnerable breeds such as bulldogs and older dogs.

For households without air‑conditioning, five simple measures are recommended: stay well‑hydrated with water‑rich foods and drinks; take alternating hot‑cold showers; ventilate rooms regularly by opening windows and drawing curtains; wear lightweight, light‑coloured clothing; and use refreshing body sprays to aid evaporative cooling.

A cost‑free room‑cooling trick involves hanging a damp towel in front of an open window. As incoming warm air passes through the wet fabric, evaporation draws heat from the air, lowering indoor temperature without electricity. The towel should be moist, not dripping, and can be re‑wet as needed. This method offers a quiet, energy‑saving alternative to fans or AC units, especially useful for improving sleep during hot nights.