Keeping Cool During a Summer Heat Wave

Summer is finally here and it looks to stay. With temperatures rising and hitting the 40 degree mark in the city, we are in for a very hot summer. With temperatures like these it’s important to keep cool to prevent over exposure to the sun or a heat stroke. During heat waves like these, there are many ways to keep cool and beat the summer heat.  Don’t know how? Here’s some ways you can keep cool during a summer heat wave.

Utilize Cooling Stations:

If you don’t have air conditioning at your house, try to spend some time of your day at cooler places, such as malls, libraries, theatres, etc. Toronto also has multiple cooling stations open as well as many city pools, with some staying open late during heat waves.

Stay Hydrated:

Best way to beat the heat is to stay hydrated. Drink lots and lots of water throughout the day to keep your body hydrated. Avoid caffeinated drinks and alcohol. They act as diuretics and make you urinate more frequently.

Keep Strenuous Work to a Minimum:

During a heat wave, keep work light and simple. Try not to do any strenuous work, such as cutting the grass, in the direct heat. These types of activities in the heat will take more time and leave you extremely exhausted, putting you at risk of a heat stroke. If you need to do any of these activities, try doing them in the early morning or in the evening when it’s much cooler.

Keep Covered:

Wear light colours when going out. Dark colours attract heat and will make you feel even hotter in the sun. Wearing cotton fabrics will also help you feel cooler.

Get Wet:

Outside or inside, this is one of the quickest ways to keep cool. Place a cold towel on your face or around your neck to cool your body down. You can also take cold showers throughout the day or spray your face with a light cold mist.

Stay Indoors:

If you don’t need to be outside, then stay indoors. This is the best way to avoid the sun’s rays and beat the heat. Yes, you may be bored in the house and tempted to go out to enjoy the nice weather, but it’s better than getting sunburned or dehydrated.

It’s also important to remember that during a heat wave, young children, the elderly and pets also have to be looked at with great care as they are most vulnerable to the heat and humidity. Make sure to check up on elderly neighbours or relatives and keep children and pets out of the direct sunlight.