Staying Cool Outdoors When Temperatures Rise – Tips for Dealing with the Outdoor Heat

The heat of summer is reaching into many areas of the United States sooner this year than is typical. If you’re going to be outside when temperatures rise, it is important to have a plan for how to deal with the heat. Here are some tips you can use to keep yourself cool in the summertime heat.

Automobile: Never leave pets, children, or anyone at all in a closed parked car when the weather is hot, even if you think you’ll be returning in a short time. Temperatures in vehicles can rise more quickly than you think. In some instances even on an 80 degree day it has been shown that the temperature inside a vehicle which initially read around 91 degrees showed that after 10 minutes, the temperature had increased to over 106 degrees which is hot enough to kill the occupants inside. So the best plan of action is to never, ever leave anyone inside a closed vehicle.

Plan your times of activity: If you have the ability to do so, try to be outside during early morning or evening hours, and stay out of the direct heat of the sun during the warmest part of the day.

Adjust your level of activity: Avoid operating at full speed during periods of intense heat. Instead of running outside, try walking and plan exercise during times when it is the coolest. If you are working outside, make sure to take frequent breaks and get out of the sun and into the shade during your breaks.

Hydration: make sure to have adequate fluids available to drink throughout the day. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks or anything with lots of sugar. If you’re going to be working outside all day, you may want to have beverages which include an electrolyte replacement in order to replace the electrolytes and salt you will lose from sweating. Talk to your doctor about your own personal situation for more tips with regards to your electrolytes.

Cover up: wear a hat, sun block, and clothes that are loose and light colored. Darker colors absorb heat, whereas light colored clothing reflect the heat away from your body, so choose your attire wisely.

Consult your doctor: if you have a condition where you are taking prescription medications, ask your doctor about special precautions you should be taking. It is even more important to speak with your doctor if you are taking any types of diuretics or antihistamines.

Stay out of the heat: If you can, simply stay inside more. If your home does not have air conditioning, try to stay in the lowest part of your household or building that is out of the sun. Close shades, curtains or blinds to block out direct sunlight, and turn on a fan which can cool the air. Turn on ceiling fans if you have them.

Plan meals wisely: avoid large, fatty meals, and eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Now is the time to increase your fruits and vegetables as they are healthy and have higher water content than some other types of foods.

Companion Animals: make sure your pets are inside or have access to plenty of shade and fresh cool water at all times. Change your pets water bowl often.

Unfortunately, we can’t control mother nature’s temperatures, but we can be smart and healthy about how to deal with the heat during the summer as the temperatures increase.