It’s not only about keeping cool when summer temperatures climb to new heights. Heat-related illnesses range from heat cramps to heat exhaustion and sunstroke when temperatures are excessively high. These suggestions can help keep you cool:
1. Plan to spend at least part of the day in a cool public area if you don’t have air conditioning. On hot days, some cities offer public cooling facilities.
2. Drink lots of water and other electrolyte-rich drinks to prevent dehydration.
3. Freeze some plastic water bottles. When you’re ready to go outdoors, grab one out of the freezer and you’ll have a supply of cold water as the ice melts.
4. Use fans to help circulate air and make you feel cooler even if your home is air-conditioned.
5. Wear clothing made of cotton, which is cooler than clothing made of synthetic materials.
6. Choose loose-fitting, light-colored clothes.
7. Change your outdoor exercise routine to times of the day when it’s cooler. If you can’t alter the length of your workout, shorten it by completing fewer minutes, walking instead of jogging or lowering the intensity.
8. Prepare lighter summer cuisine such as numerous small meals or snacks with cold fruit or low-fat dairy — you don’t have to use a hot burner or oven.
9. Take a small, portable, battery-powered fan with you to an outdoor event; some even attach them to a water bottle and spray a cooling mist.
10. Wear a hat but remove it periodically and soak it in cold water before putting it back on.