Event Professionals...the Heat is On!

As a UK-based events professional, the changing weather is always a topic for discussion during the planning and delivery of any event.

Here in the UK, we do like a ‘moan’ about the unpredictability of the British weather and, over the past couple of months, we have experienced unseasonably high temperatures and humidity. Honestly, we are just not prepared for it! Dealing with high temperatures in your home life is one thing, but dealing with heat and humidity during an event is another.

So, with that in mind, I wanted to give the benefit of my experience and share a few tips and tricks that have been keeping me cool whilst delivering events in the heat:

1. Wear loose clothing! Most of us are event ninjas dressed head to toe in black, but making clothing as loose as possible will help give you some air when needed.

2. Use a thermos bottle to keep your water chilled for as long as possible.

3. This is a tip I learned online - ¾ fill your water bottle and pop it in the freezer. When it’s frozen, take it out and top it up with water.  This will stay iced for ages!

4. Putting socks (and pants) in the freezer (before you wear them, ideally, but no judgement here)!

5. Limit rushing or running around when you are on-site. Plan your journeys, plan your tasks and plan your route to each location. For example, do you really need to walk across that Exhibition Hall?

6. Use radios, WhatsApp and other technology to communicate rather than having to walk around for in-person updates.

7. Pack some fruit in your snack bag, it’s a great way to stay hydrated!

8. The answer to ice cream is always ‘yes’ - you deserve the treat!

9. Now this is a tough one…minimise your alcohol intake to avoid dehydration.

10. If you are outside, wear a cap, sunglasses and suncream - and remember to reapply!

11. Make sure you are having regular breaks to rest, recover from the heat and rehydrate.

12. Know where the First Aiders are in case you or a colleague feels faint or unwell in the heat.

The changing weather is just another challenge that event professionals take in their stride - it's all part of the joy of working in the industry.

Stay cool!