How to Stay Cool in Hot Weather

Stay cool during hot weather by keeping your body hydrated and avoiding the peak hours when the sun’s rays and the heat is extreme. Summer is a season when the temperature tends to be hot and in some areas there will be extreme heat.  The temperature may rise to an uncomfortable heat index of 95 to 100 degrees.  When the temperature rises and the humidity is high one need to take steps to stay cool.

Step 1

Seek shelter indoors where there is air conditioning. Extreme heat occurs from 11 and 4 so this is the hottest time during the day and you should avoid outdoor activity.

If you do not have an air conditioner in your home then go to a shopping mall, the library, bowling, museum  or go to see an afternoon movie.  Look for activities where there is air conditioning so you can stay cool.

Step 2

Plan a day trip to tour a cave.  Many natural underground caves have large enough entrances to allow people access.  The average temperature is 70 degrees in a cave.  Join a tour group to explore the cave or find one on your own.  Caves are dark so you will need a flashlight.  Use caution when touring caves and always go with someone who is familiar with caves.

Step 3

For outdoor activities wear a waterproof sun block lotion with a 55 or greater SPF, wear a hat wide brim hat that is treated with UV protection and sunglasses.  Dress in loose fitting cotton clothing  that is white or light tan in color.  White or tan colors reflect the light or buy clothing that is made with ultraviolet protection.  Seek outdoor shade; an awning, tree, umbrella, canopy, sun sail or a porch.  For all outdoor activities bring chilled water and Gatorade to aid in hydrating your body and replenishing your electrolytes. Also bring ice water in a spray bottle so you can mist you face and neck.  This is a good way to stay cool while outdoors.

Step 4

Plan to spend the day at a water parks, community pool or go to the lake.   Stay cool by emerging your body in water.  When out of the water seek shade.  If you have no access to the water park then set up the sprinkler in your back yard or a slip and slide.  Make your own fun for you and your children.  Provide a shady retreat under a tree or umbrella.

Step 5

Hydrate your body by drinking water all day long.  Drink water even if you do not feel thirsty.  Water  will help to maintain your body temperature so that you will not suffer sun stroke.

Step 6

Stay cool by eating cold foods and frozen drinks.  Choose frozen smoothies, Italian ice, snow cones, ice cream and chilled watermelon.

Tips:

Avoid doing strenuous exercise, walking your dog or yard work during the heat of the day.  Plan to participate in outdoor activities early in the morning or at night after the sun goes down.

Image Credits:

Introduction Heat Wave

Cave by Dave Brunnel

Comments (12)

paul said:

	... Thanks for the fun tips!
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July 23, 2011
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Susan Golis said:

	... Thanks Paul for making this article the Editors pick. I really do appreciate it.
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July 23, 2011
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bossypants said:

	... Timely article loaded with good advice and resourceful ideas for staying cool on hot days! Nice choice for Editor's Pick!
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July 24, 2011
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tracysmith159 said:

	... Wonderful ways to stay cool. It has been over a 100 degrees the last few days, way too hot for me.
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July 24, 2011
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Carl Benjamin said:

	... Very good tips to follow.
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July 24, 2011
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PBenfield said:

	... Good tips. I personally cannot wait until I don't need them.
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July 24, 2011
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jswana said:

	... Very wise counsel, I tell you. I have a little air but I found myself really enjoying the air conditioned stores. It's horrible in Chicago..... Thanks for sharing!
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July 25, 2011
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Margie Lynn said:

	... Great article,we have over 100 degree weather here in Texas every day.
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July 25, 2011
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Peggy H said:

	... Great ideas for staying cool. Staying inside is a biggie.
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July 26, 2011
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Susan Golis said:

	... Thank you everyone for your comments. This summer has been extreme. Every day 105 with a heat index of 110, we had one day that had HI of 116. Now when I see the weather forecast of 97 I think we are going to have a cool day. It was so hot the other day that my thermal back drapes were melting. I am so ready for fall and some cooler weather.
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July 26, 2011
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thechronicler said:

	... Cave-hiking sounds like a lot of fun! Where I am we don't have any nearby, so we head to the mountains to hike because it's around 80 degrees up there when it's 100 to 110 in town. We're used to triple digits for 3-4 months in my neck of the woods, but I know a lot of the rest of the country is not; I hope this heat wave lets up soon!
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August 07, 2011
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bossypants said:

	... Back to say congratulations on being the featured article of the day! Good article with lots of excellent and innovative ideas! Well deserved!
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August 07, 2011
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