The summer sun can be very heat, depending on where you choose to live or go on vacation. It can ruin your fun and affect your health if you don’t prepare. Heatstroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration can all be caused by extreme heat.
Check the weather every day and stay hydrated and cool. Here are four tips to help you cool down this summer if you don’t know where to begin.
Consider upgrading your AC
Summer heat can make your house unbearably hot. Air conditioning is the best way to cool your home. It beats window or oscillating fans by miles. What if your central AC can’t reach certain areas? Consider switching to a split AC, which lets you control the temperature by zone or individual rooms. These systems can save you money as well — what a great win-win!
Split AC systems can be divided into multiple units that each have their own thermostat. You can adjust the settings to suit your preferences in each room. To save energy, you can skip cooling rooms that won’t be used. Mini split AC systems require no ductwork and are therefore easier to install. The lack of ductwork means less energy will be wasted as conditioned air leaks through HVAC ducts.
Dress for Hot-Weather Success
Dressing for the weather is important when you spend time outside in the summer. There are certain fabrics that work better in hot weather than others, including — surprise! Nylon and polyester are the best fabrics for hot weather. These materials, unlike cotton, are moisture-wicking. They do not absorb or hold moisture when you perspire. These materials are designed to move sweat away, making you more comfortable on hot days.
It’s better to wear lighter colors when you’re in the sun. This is because sunlight reflects from light colors. Dark clothes absorb the sun’s light, making you feel hotter.
Natural fibers can be used for activities that are sun-soaked, but synthetics with moisture-wicking properties may not be the best option. Clothing items that are loose-fitting and made of breathable fabrics, such as silk or linen, make excellent summer staples. These garments, paired with a refreshing drink in the shade will make you feel summer’s carefree spirit!
Plan Weather-Appropriate Activities
Consider the weather each day when planning your summer activities to avoid overheating. Consider indoor entertainment if certain days will have an especially high UV index. You can escape the heat by visiting museums, bowling alleys and shopping malls. Make crafts at home or play board games. You can also have fun indoors by making homemade popsicles or having a movie marathon.
It’s not necessary to avoid the outdoors to prevent a heat wave. It can also be beneficial to make plans that include water or lots of shade. On a hot day, a quick dip in the swimming pool or a sprinkler is advisable. You can also visit your local water park or recreation center if you do not have any of these amenities at home. You can also take advantage of shade by eating your lunch under a park pavilion or hanging a hammock from the trees.
Drink lots and lots of water
It’s likely that you have already heard this tip before — and with good reason. Your body sweats more in the summer, so you need to replenish those fluids. Dehydration is a major cause of heat exhaustion. By replacing lost fluids with water, you can prevent it. Most of the time, plain water will be sufficient to hydrate you. No electrolytes or other additives are required. If you are working in the heat, such as construction workers or lifeguards, adding electrolytes may be helpful.
Water is good for your health. It can help keep joints lubricated, and improve sleep. Water also improves your mood, cognition and reasoning. Consider adding mint or fruit to your water if you have trouble drinking as much as is recommended. It will also be easier to drink ice cold water if you use an insulated stainless steel bottle. These bottles can maintain cold temperatures for six hours or longer.
The Bottom Line
Summer heat can be brutal, but you need to keep cool. There are many ways to make summers more bearable, whether it is by upgrading your AC or dressing appropriately for the season. It’s good that you know how to cool down your body. Use these heat-fighting strategies to protect yourself and your loved ones from the summer’s heat.
