During our most recent bout of intense sunshine this week, energy companies British Gas and OVO are both advising their customers to draw the curtains and close the blinds.

The Met Office is predicting 34°C on Monday, 28°C on Tuesday, and 26°C on Wednesday when the heat waves return. Only on Thursday and Friday will it cool down once more, reaching a much more tolerable 24-23C.

In addition, British Gas and OVO's house cooling guidance supports government advise regarding hot weather, which states that extremely heated temperatures inside your home can potentially put your health at risk, particularly from heat stroke or dehydration.

The UK Health Security Agency was the first to advise homeowners to close their curtains and blinds during hot weather, especially those that face the sun, in order to help cool their homes.

British Gas has also released guidelines for maintaining a cool home.

"Even though it may be tempting to open your windows during a heat wave, keeping your windows closed during the hottest part of the day will help keep your home cool."

"So try to only let the air in early, or late, in the day. Light coloured blinds and curtains made of a weightier fabric offer the best heat-blocking potential, so go for these if you're thinking up updating yours - but keep hold of any darker ones that you replace, so you can switch back once the temperature drops to keep the heat in. Keep these closed during the day too to keep your house cool in summer."

Energy firm OVO Energy also backs the tip.

OVO says: "Tempting as it is to fling open the windows at the first sign of summer, it's not actually the best idea. To keep your house cool, you need to keep the hot air out."

"This means keeping windows closed during the day particularly south-facing windows. Keep curtains, blinds and windows shut when the sun is shining directly on them, and when you're out. Try opening windows on the most shaded side of your home, to avoid sunlight and hot air getting in."

Direct sunlight on windows causes a rapid increase in house temperature. The phenomenon is effectively the 'greenhouse effect' observed in Earth's Ozone layer, which intensifies the heat through glass windows on houses as it does within greenhouses.

As a result, if you find sunlight streaming through any window, the easiest solution would be to draw the curtains or shut the blinds.

The complete guidance from the UKHSA advises people to avoid sun exposure during the day's hottest hours - between 11 am to 3 pm.

The UKHSA adds: "If you're planning on physical activities like exercising or walking the dog, it's advised to arrange them during cooler parts of the day like the morning or evening."

"Keep your home cool by shutting windows and drawing curtains in rooms that are exposed to the sun."

"When venturing outdoors, ensure you're appropriately dressed with suitable headgear and sunglasses, seek out shade where possible and apply sun cream."

"Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and try to limit your alcohol consumption."

"Check up on family members, friends and neighbours who may be more susceptible to heat-related illnesses. If you fall into this category, ask them to do the same for you."

"Be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke and know what actions to take if you or someone else exhibits these signs."