With heat waves becoming more common and more extreme, it’s vital to find ways to stay cool. Unfortunately, for those without air conditioning, it can be a difficult task. Whether you’re worried about heat exhaustion or simply can’t get comfortable, here are our top 5 tips to help keep your body temperature down during the heat.
1. Close and Cover Your Windows
Heat easily sneaks into your home through windows. To keep the hot air out, close all of your windows and keep curtains shut to minimize the amount of sunlight shining into your home. If you want to block out the light completely, use blackout curtains or hang up a blanket over your window. If the temperature goes down at night, open your windows to let the cool air inside.
2. Keep Your Cool Air in One Room
If you are spending most of your time in one room, keep the door closed and focus your cooling efforts in that room. The area will cool down faster (with the help of a fan) than if the cool air is trying to travel through the whole house or apartment. If the air is still hot outside, keep your windows closed and curtains shut.
3. Drink Water Before You’re Thirsty
Staying hydrated during a heat wave is one of the most important things you can do for your health. You can become dehydrated before feeling thirsty, so try to drink water consistently throughout the day.
4. Make a DIY “Air Conditioner”
If you don’t have an air conditioning unit or central air, try making a DIY cooling unit using a fan. One of the easiest ways to do this is to put ice in a bowl or baking pan and place it in front of a fan. The air will blow over the ice and create a temporary cooling effect, which can make a big difference in small spaces.
For questions or quotes about installing air conditioning in your home, contact your local HVAC company.
5. Use Water To Cool Down
You can also try cooling down using water. This could include taking a cold shower or bath; putting your feet in a tub of cold water; or wetting a towel or cloth, placing it around your neck, head, or body, and then sitting in front of a fan. Using a damp cloth or t-shirt and sitting in front of the fan can mimic the feeling of sweat wicking away in the breeze, which will cool you down.
Keeping a room cool during heat waves without air conditioning can be frustrating, but it’s not impossible. These few tips can help the next heat wave be a breeze! What is your favorite way to beat the heat? Tag us on Instagram or Twitter @WhirLocal and let us know.
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