How to Keep Cool in the Summer Heat

Like most people, I love the summer but hate the heat! There are days when I feel like I cannot win against it and I just want to stay inside and out of the smoldering inferno. Normally, your skin, blood vessels and perspiration will adjust to heat. They are a natural "air conditioner" for your body. However, sometimes if you are exposed to intense heat for too long, your "cooling system" could fail you. Here are some tips to keep you cool in the summer and keep you safe.

-Always, always, always drink plenty of water. It increases the ability for your body to sweat and cool down. Even if you do not feel thirsty, keep drinking your water! If you're planning on exercising in the heat for an extended period of time, grab a sports drink. They can help replace sodium, potassium, and chloride that you lose while sweating.

-Wear sunscreen. If you get a sunburn, it makes it harder for your body to cool down. It also protects your skin from those harmful UV rays, so it kills two birds with one stone.

-Try to stay out of afternoon sun. Everyone knows it's the hottest in the middle of the day, so if you can help it, avoid heading out for a walk or to play with the kids in the afternoon.

-Think of your pets! They are wearing a natural fur coat in the middle of summer, so make sure they have plenty of clean, cool water, adequate shade, and if they have long fur, consider having them shaved in the summertime.

-Stay out of the sun. Seems simple enough, but the truth of the matter is, being in the shade can cut the heat by leaps and bounds.

-Dress light! Make sure your clothing is lightweight and light colored. Many people believe that dark clothes "attract" the sun, but in essence, they hold onto heat.

-Got soda? While you shouldn't drink caffeinated drinks in the heat, it's wonderful to take a cold can of soda and roll it under your bare feet! The cold can feels glorious!

-Insulate! Make sure you home is properly insulated. It can keep the air conditioning from slipping out and conserves energy.

-Grab a fan. Just having a fan blowing on you brings almost instant relief on a hot summer day. You can even keep a small battery powered one in your bag or purse for those days when you know you're going to be outside and it's gonna be hot!

Make sure you keep yourself aware of the dangers of heat stroke! High body temperature, lack of sweating, finding it hard to breathe, red, flushed skin, strange behavior, seizure, and even a coma. If you or someone you know is showing any of these signs, it's important to cool them quickly and get them medical attention.

I hope some of these tips help you to stay cool and beat the heat!