Tips on Staying Cool This Summer

Summer is coming which means hot weather. High temperatures can make you miserable, and in worst cases can kill. Elderly and people with health conditions are especially susceptible to heat stroke during hot weather.

If you're one of us that can't take the heat, here are some quick and easy tips to cool down this summer without busting the electric bill!

1. Run cold water on the insides of your wrists and splash it on your neck. Take a cold washcloth and rub it on your forehead and under your back hairline.

2. Set your fan up with a bowl of cold ice water. The fan will blow cool air on you and you won't have to crank up the air conditioner! If you can't sit and stay for a while, take a spray bottle filled with cool water with you, and squirt as needed.

3. Wear damp clothing. I wouldn't recommend jeans for this, but dampening a pair of loose fitting shorts and a tee shirt can help keep you cool! Light colored, cotton clothing is great for a hot day, where dark clothing will attract the heat to you.

4. Soak your feet in a tub of cool water. It'll cool off the rest of your body as well. If the temperature is real hot, just relax and hang around for the day if you're able.

5. Drink lots of water. It's cheap and great for you. It will help cool down your insides as well, and keep you from dehydrating. Try to avoid caffeine or alcohol.

6. If you have long hair, pull it up! Keep hair off of your neck by wearing a ponytail or a bun.

7. Set your fan in your window facing out to pull the hot air out of the house and push it outside. Close your curtains or drapes to keep the sun out, and the cool air in.

8. Keep baking and cooking to a minimum. Use the crock-pot or microwave. The heat off of an oven or stove will heat you up fast! Better yet, it's a perfect time to order out.

If you have elderly neighbors, check in on them as well to make sure they're beating the heat as well. High temperatures can affect the elderly.

A few simple things to do on a hot day can make the difference in your comfort level. Take the time to take care of you on hot days!