Cool Ideas to Beat the Heat

By MC Kelby HERWriter

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This week, most of the country is sizzling in the bright sunshine with record breaking temperatures that aren't expected to break until the weekend. Many are scrambling to find ways to beat the heat. If you are trying to stay cool--no sweat, here are some inexpensive and easy ways to stay cool:

• To create an instant cool draft, put a bowl of ice In front of your fan. (Also, you can put a towel underneath the bowl to catch the sweat.)

• If you want to cool your bed, fill a hot water bottle with ice water. Use it to cool your ankles and back of your knees.

• Before bed, put your sheets in plastic bag and toss them in the freezer for an hour or two.

• Put a box fan in your window facing out and open another window or two in another part of the house. This creates a cool draft of moving air. (Only do this morning and evening hours when the temperature drops.)

• Keep the curtains closed. Close your blinds, shades and curtains to shield heat from getting in the house.

• Wear loose, lightweight cotton or linen clothing.

• Cool off your pulse points by running cold water over your wrist for a minute or so each hour. You can splash water on your temples or face.

• Don’t underestimate the power of H20. Drink a glass of cold water every 15 to 20 minutes – even if you’re not thirsty.

• Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Both are diuretics and can cause your body to lose water.

• Eat less. The bigger your dinner, the more your body has to work to digest it. Eat smaller meals more often and avoid hot food. Eat cool foods like watermelon, cantaloupe, Jell-O, or other fruits.

• Eat to sweat. Spicy foods like Indian make you sweat without actually raising body temperature. Thanks to a chemical called capsaicin (found in hot peppers). Once your skin is damp, you'll feel cooled by its evaporation.

• Use your microwave. Microwaves direct most of their energy into the food, which means less heat in your kitchen.

• Get grilling. It will keep the heat outside where it belongs.

• Save money on your energy bill. Use someone else’s AC. Catch up on your summer reading at a Barnes & Noble, hang out at a local Starbucks or search for sales at the mall. (Window-shopping doesn’t cost a thing.)

• Go out for a matinee movie. Movie theaters offer reduced prices for matinee show times – the perfect time to hide out from the midday heat.

• Invade the local libraries to beat the heat and save some green. Check out the library’s website for any indoor activities (movies, seminars, etc.).

• Visit indoor playground facilities, batting cages, indoor rock climbing facilities, or laser tag. Or go bowling – an activity the whole family can enjoy.

Hot weather puts everyone at risk for developing heat exhaustion. Seek medical treatment immediately if you have any signs of heat exhaustion. Symptoms include heavy sweating, paleness, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting and fainting. If heat exhaustion is not treated, it can lead to a heat stroke (when the body cannot control its temperature). Heat stroke could be fatal or cause permanent disability if emergency treatment is not provided.

Sources:
http://www.nwhealth.edu
http://www.nbcphiladelphia.com
http://www.abc2news.com

MC Ortega is the former publicist for the late Walter Payton, Coca-Cola and Dunkin’ Donuts. Ortega is a senior communications and messaging executive specializing in media relations, social media, program development and crisis communications. Also, Ortega is an avid traveler and international shopper. Ortega resides with her partner, Craig, dog, Fionne and extensive shoe collection. Ortega also enjoys jewelry design/production and flamenco dancing.

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Christine Jeffries

Hi MC,
Great article, and some fun ideas to beat the heat! Your article reminded me of the hot Summers in Chicago growing up. We didn't have air conditioning, and my mom used to take me to the library for some relief. There's a picture to prove it. It probably helped develop my love of books and writing. There also is nothing like a cool drink of lemonade or sun tea on a hot day.

July 8, 2010 - 10:32am

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MC Kelby HERWriter View Profile Send Message

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.