How we survived 120 degrees WITHOUT air-conditioning | Tips for staying COOL in the summer!
Hydration is Key: Drink plenty of cool water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Aim for 8-12 glasses a day, but listen to your body and adjust accordingly. Electrolyte-rich drinks can also be helpful, especially if sweating heavily.
Clothing: Wear loose, lightweight, and light-colored clothing that allows for air circulation. Cotton is a good choice. Avoid tight clothes and dark colors that absorb heat.
Cool Showers and Baths: Take cool showers or baths several times a day to lower your body temperature. Wetting a washcloth and placing it on your pulse points (neck, wrists, ankles) can also provide temporary relief.
Minimize Heat Sources: Turn off lights and appliances that aren’t in use. Avoid cooking that generates a lot of heat. Consider cold meals like salads or pre-cook meals in cooler mornings.
Create Airflow: Open windows and doors in the evening when the outside air is cooler. Use strategically placed fans to create cross-ventilation and draw cooler air inside. Ceiling fans can help circulate air as well. If you have a basement, spend time there as cool air tends to settle downwards.
Blocking Heat:
Window Treatments: Block sunlight during the hottest part of the day by closing curtains, blinds, or shades. Blackout curtains are most effective. Consider reflecting heat with aluminum foil taped to the outside of windows facing the sun (be cautious as this can damage windows in some cases).
Weatherization: Seal any gaps around windows and doors to prevent hot air from leaking in.
Additional Tips:
Limit Activity: Avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day (typically afternoon). Rest in shaded areas or indoors.
Cool Down Activities: Spend time in air-conditioned public spaces like libraries, malls, or cooling centers if available. Consider a damp sheet hung in a doorway misted with cool water for a makeshift “air conditioner.”
Monitor Yourself and Others: Be aware of the signs of heatstroke (headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion) and seek medical attention immediately if needed. Check on elderly neighbors or those at high risk to ensure their well-being.
Important Note:
120 degrees is an extremely high temperature, and staying safe requires extra vigilance. If possible, consider seeking temporary refuge in a cooler location with air conditioning. If you must stay in a very hot environment, prioritize staying hydrated and cool down activities.