Tips for Staying Cool During the Dog Days of Summer
As summer hits its peak, often referred to as the “dog days” of the season, it’s sizzling in many parts of the country. The hot, humid days can leave us struggling to stay cool and comfortable. Whether you’re spending time outdoors, commuting to work, or relaxing at home, extreme heat can take a toll on your body, your mood, and even your safety.
Fortunately, there are practical and affordable ways to beat the heat. Here are some effective tips to help you stay cool and protect your health during the dog days of summer.
Stay Safe and Cool During Summer Heat
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
It sounds simple, but many people underestimate how quickly they can become dehydrated in hot weather. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, or sugary drinks, which can lead to dehydration.
To add flavor, try infusing your water with cucumber, lemon, or mint. Eating water-rich foods like watermelon, cucumbers, and berries also helps keep you hydrated.
- Dress for the Heat
What you wear can make a huge difference. Opt for loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in light colors, which reflect rather than absorb the sun’s rays. Breathable fabrics like cotton or linen are ideal. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses can also help you stay cooler when outdoors.
- Use Fans Strategically
If you don’t have air conditioning—or are trying to cut energy costs—fans can be a big help. Ceiling fans should rotate counterclockwise in summer to push cool air down. Box and oscillating fans can improve airflow, especially if placed near windows during cooler parts of the day.
For an added cooling effect, place a bowl of ice or a frozen water bottle in front of a fan. The breeze will blow chilled air through the room.
- Cool Down Your Living Space
Keep blinds and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun’s heat. Blackout curtains or reflective shades can significantly reduce indoor temperatures. If using air conditioning, use fans to circulate the cooled air. This saves energy without sacrificing comfort.
Also, try to limit how much you use your oven. Plan meals you can make on the stovetop or microwave. One idea is to prepare and freeze extra meals on cooler days. Then, when the mercury soars, simply thaw and serve them.
- Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely
Try to schedule outdoor activities, such as taking your daily walk or watering flowers, during the early morning or late evening hours, when temperatures are lower. If you must be outside in the middle of the day, take frequent breaks in the shade and wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
You might also try purchasing ice-pack neck wraps to wear when you are outside. They are inexpensive and can be found at grocery stores, sporting goods stores, and online retailers.
- Take Cool Showers or Baths
A quick, cool shower can help lower your body temperature fast. Even just soaking your feet or running cold water over your wrists can provide relief. Try to avoid unduly hot showers during the summer heat. While warm water can help open pores and make it easier to cool off, higher temperatures can further dehydrate the skin.
- Check on Vulnerable Friends and Neighbors
Make a point to check in on senior loved ones and ensure they have access to cool spaces and hydration. Extreme heat can be especially dangerous for older adults, children, and those with chronic conditions. As we age, our bodies have a more difficult time processing heat. That means older adults can develop heat-related illnesses more quickly than younger people. In addition, some medications commonly taken by seniors, such as those prescribed for heart disease, don’t mix well with heat.
Mobile Monitoring Devices Help in a Crisis
If you or a senior family member likes to spend time outdoors, an added safety measure you can take is to purchase a mobile monitoring device. In the event you suffer a medical emergency, you can quickly call for help from almost anywhere. Call 1-844-203-5617 to learn more!