Here is a simple list to help you stay cool without spending too much money or using an excessive amount of electricity

• Minimise sources of heat: Standard or halogen light bulbs, Big LCD or Plasma TV sets, refrigerators, washers, dryers, Personal Computers, ovens, hot water pipes and boilers are significant sources of heat, which will exacerbate the effect of a heat wave. Make sure you turn off what you don't use, use insulation where you can, and invest in more efficient lighting for your home. Visit the Energy Savings Trust (www.est.org.uk) for help and information on making your home more energy efficient.
• Double-glazing: Double glazed windows are great at keeping the heat in, but they also keep it out. Open your windows at night to circulate cooler night air, and keep them shut during the day when the outside air is hotter (get window locks if you are worried about security at night). Open windows on the breezy (and preferably shady) bottom side of the house, and open windows on the other side of the house at the top. This creates a cooling cross-current of air.
• Shades: If you've got a sunny side to your house, keep the curtains or blinds on that side closed during the day. Blocking or shading direct sunlight from coming through the windows is the easiest way to keep your home cool.
• Fans: Fans don't use much energy, and when air is circulating it feels much cooler. Ceiling fans are best, but a good portable fan can be very effective as well.
• Use a "Chillow" pillow: This inexpensive device fills with tap water and slides into your pillow. The Chillow absorbs your body heat and radiates it out, claiming to create a more comfortable sleep. Search online for the best price.
• Go Energy scaping: Windbreaking hedges can divert the force and direction of the wind in the winter, while a shady tree by the west or east of your home can cut the air conditioning cost of your home in the summer.
• Solar reflective films on your windows and conservatory: New heat reflecting films applied to your windows ensure that your windows reflect the outside heat, yet let the light in, so you get the best of both worlds without paying the earth.
• Flat Tops: If you've got a flat roof, paint it with a specially formulated reflective paint or just paint it white. The reflective effect will help to keep the rooms under the flat roof much cooler.

And remember - when the weather gets hot, stay out of the sun during the most intense periods, drink lots of water and avoid excessive physical labour if possible.