How to Stay Cool in the Heat

According to the CDC, high temperatures kill hundreds of people in the U.S. each year, and forecasters are predicting a hot month in August this year. Prepare yourself for what's to come and stay protected from the heat to avoid heatstroke or hyperthermia (yes, this is a real thing!). Follow our tips below to beat the heat this summer.

Do outdoor chores early in the morning.

If you must do things like cut the grass or other outdoor work, start early in the morning when temperatures are low. We recommended getting up as soon as it's bright enough for you to see what you're doing. Depending on where you live, this can be as early as 5:00 or 6:00 a.m.

Dress appropriately.

Sometimes you won't be able to make a fashion statement with summer outfits, and that's okay! The focus is to keep you cool during the summer heat, so the lighter the clothes are the better. If you have a pair of old jeans you've been thinking about tossing, consider cutting them into shorts instead!

Go swimming.

This wouldn't be a complete list if we didn't include this one. Swimming has been a favorite summer activity for many people for centuries, and for good reason. Wanna stay cool? Take a dip in the pool! If you don't have a private pool accessible to you, check public pools available in your area, or head to a beach or lake if you live near one.

Limit stove and oven use.

If you need to use your oven or stove on a hot day, try to be as quick and efficient as possible. We recommend prepping your food before you turn the stove on so you can start cooking as soon as it's fully heated up.

Start your car early before getting in.

We know how long it can take for cars to cool off during extreme heat. If you have the ability to auto-start your car so that the AC is running before you get in, we recommend doing so. If you do this, always make sure your doors are locked.

Stay in air-conditioned buildings.

Let's face it, there's nothing like relaxing in some air conditioning (AC) on a hot summer day. If you don't have AC in your home, consider spending time in public indoor places such as malls, museums or restaurants where you can enjoy their services and cool off at the same time.

Stay hydrated.

This is one of the most important tips on this list. If you're going to be in the heat for long periods at a time, you need to be hydrated. Some studies recommend drinking eight cups of water a day, but it may be best to do some research on what best for your height and weight. Did you know cold water can lower your body temperature? If you're not staying hydrated, staying cool in the heat may be difficult and you could find yourself in a dangerous situation.

Take cool showers.

If the heat has already gotten to you and you need a fast way to cool down, a cool shower can help. Get the water as cool as you can stand it and hop in. This will keep your body temperature down and feel very refreshing.

Use fans around the house.

If you don't have air conditioning, or if the air conditioning isn't working fast enough, fans are a great alternative. There are many different types of fans to choose from at different price points.

Now that you know how to stay cool in the heat, you can keep your pets cool too!

 

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